Analyzing the "Dark Side": Can "Dark Side" Trait Theory Prove Helpful in Leadership Development

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Abstract:

Dark side trait theory is a leadership theory that postulates people possess certain personality traits that can impair individual and organizational performance if left unmanaged. Proper management of these traits involves self-awareness and self-regulation. This paper applies dark side trait theory to two different operational commanders who served during the War in the Pacific, namely Admirals Raymond Spruance and William Halsey, to show the value of this theory in leader development. It explains dark side traits specific to each leader, their level of ability in regulating these traits, and how their ability in regulating these traits affected their operational performance. In the end, this paper concludes that dark side trait theory can be useful to leader development and therefore should be considered for inclusion in future versions of the Chief of Naval Operations Navy Leader Development Framework.

Author(s):
Kohlmann, Matthew B.
Author Organization(s):
Naval War College Newport United States
Descriptive Note:
Technical Report
Pagination:
0026

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release
Distribution Statement:
Approved For Public Release;

RECORD

Collection: TR
Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_5.4_Decide; JCA_5.5_Direct; JCA_5.5.1_Communicate Intent and Guidance; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_6_Net Centric; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_5.4.3_Establish Rule Sets; JCA_6.2.3_Core Enterprise Services; JCA_5.2_Understand; JCA_5.5.2_Task; JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_1.2.3_Educating; JCA_3.2_Engagement; JCA_6.1_Information Transport; JCA_6.2_Enterprise Services; JCA_1.2.5_Lessons Learned; JCA_1.3_Human Capital Management; JCA_1.3.2_Personnel Management; JCA_4_Logistics
Communities of Interest:
Human Systems
Descriptor(s):
leadership, THEORY, PERSONALITY, military commanders, case studies
Field(s)/Group(s):
Psychology, Personnel Management and Labor Relations, Military Forces and Organizations
Keyword(s):
Leadership Development, Dark Side Trait Theory, self awareness, self regulation, Spruance Admiral Raymond, Halsey admiral William, operational performance, nldf (Navy Leader Development Framework)
Report Date:
2018 May 19
Creation Date:
2019 Mar 21