What is a limitation of having a single set of leadership traits according to trait theory?

The correct answer highlights a significant shortcoming of trait theory: it does not account for the dynamic and evolving nature of leadership. Leadership is not static; the demands placed on leaders can shift based on context, organizational needs, and social expectations.

Trait theory tends to focus on a fixed set of characteristics that define a leader. However, effective leadership in real-world scenarios often requires adaptability and a response to changing environments. Situations may dictate that different traits become more relevant at various times; for instance, a leader may need to display decisiveness in one context but empathy in another. By adhering to a singular set of traits, trait theory can overlook the nuanced ways in which leadership effectiveness can vary.

Other possibilities, while offering valid points about leadership and traits, do not capture this essential aspect of adaptability as directly as the chosen answer. Thus, the identified limitation situates leadership within a framework that is too rigid to respond adequately to the complexities leaders face in practice.