Gemeinschaft Vs. Gesellschaft

Age-old family ties are what lead to peaceful modern societies which respect individuals. The transition of clans and tribes into modern societies without any disruption was only possible due to linkage of basic ties. Sense of belongingness to a nation through shared ties promotes cooperation, respect and altruism amongst members. Modern times have brought along new philosophies and rapid changes which have continuously denied the sense of nationhood and emphasized on individualism and individualistic goals. The cohesion of society has been threatened and replaced by multi-cultural and multi-ethnic societies.

Many theories that have been laid down to support this idea of individualism one of which is the theory of Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft introduced by Ferdinand Tonnies (1855-1936). This theory revealed how Gemeinschaft societies achieved harmonious collaboration more or less automatically due to common culture and cultural identity. As time progressed larger multi-ethnic and multi-cultural societies began to emerge these have been defined as being united by Gesellschaft ties. In these ties collaboration was only maintained for exchange of goods and services. Gemeinschaft, refers to the closeness of holistic social relationships said to be found in pre-industrial communities, and imputed to the community as moral worth. Gesellschaft refers to more instrumental, purposeful types of relationship typical of industrial society. This objective society, where reference is only to the objective fact of a unity based on common traits and activities and other external phenomena stands in contrast to community defined by shared feeling. The Gesellschaft following their individualistic approach are obviously able to achieve more than Gemeinschaft who are bound by cultural ties and values.

Leadership theories

Several leadership theories have been proposed when dealing with such situations. But before moving to the theories one needs to understand that leadership is a process, which involves influence, it occurs in a group context and has a specific goal in mind.

Trait Theory

The first theory of leadership is trait theory, which discusses that people are born with certain character traits. Since certain traits are associated with proficient leadership, it assumes that if you could identify people with the correct traits you will be able to identity leaders. Most of the time the traits are considered to be naturally part of a person's personality from birth. From this standpoint the theory assumes that people are either born leaders or they are not.

Behavioural Theory

The second theory is the behavioural theory which negates the trait theory. It is of the opinion that leaders can be made, rather than they are born. Behavioural theories of leadership do not seek inborn traits rather they focus on what leaders do. This theory is a big leap from the trait theory for it lays down a belief that leadership can be learned by looking at the behaviour of leaders and incorporating them in your behaviour.

Situational Theory

The next theory to consider here is the situational theories. These theories present the idea that different type of leadership styles are fit for different situations. This theory suggests that leaders should be adaptive. There are four types of leadership styles that have been identified on this theory:

1. Directing leaders: These leaders define the roles and task of the followers and supervise them closely

2. Coaching leaders: These leaders define roles and tasks but seek ideas and suggestions from followers

3. Supporting leaders: Pass day to day decisions such as task allocation and processes to followers.

4. Delegating leaders: These leaders are still involved in decisions and problem solving, but control it with followers.

This theory was further enhanced by Blanchard and Hersey they stated that leadership styles should be based on competence and commitment of followers. It's the leader who should adapt and not the followers.

Transformational Theory

The final theory in this regards is the Transformational theory. This theory defines a leader to be someone who recognizes and exploits an existing need or demand of a potential follower and looks for potential motives in the followers, and seeks to satisfy higher needs and engages the full person of the follower. There are four types of leaders specified here; the intellectuals, the reformers, the revolutionaries and the heroes (Charismatic)

Each of the discussed leadership styles offers suggestions of various aspects that might be appropriate to Gemeinschaft leaders in an attempt to resolving the issues with teens. The most appropriate theory for this purpose is the Transformational leadership style. This model includes a structure that stresses leadership styles that allow for flexibility and individualism. It encourages the followers to give input in the decision making process, team work and social relationships. These leaders are utmost importance