Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

Which type of leadership is primarily focused on the exchange of resources for performance?

1. Transformational leadership

2. Transactional leadership

3. Servant leadership

4. Charismatic leadership

The correct answer is: Transactional leadership

Transactional leadership is primarily focused on the exchange of resources for performance. In this leadership style, leaders establish clear agreements with their followers, where they provide resources such as rewards, recognition, or incentives in return for achieving specific goals or adhering to standards. The basis of this type of leadership is a system of rewards and punishments, which motivates individuals to perform through these exchanges. This approach contrasts with transformational leadership, which seeks to inspire and motivate followers to go beyond their self-interests for the greater good, and is more focused on vision and change rather than transactional exchanges. Servant leadership emphasizes serving others and prioritizing their needs above one's own, fostering a community-oriented approach rather than a performance-based one. Charismatic leadership relies on the personal charm and influence of the leader to inspire and engage followers, rather than the structured exchange inherent in transactional leadership.