Chapter 9
Transformational Leadership 213
Sample Items From the Multifactor
Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) Form 5X-Short
These questions provide examples of the items that are used to evaluate lead-
ership style. The MLQ is provided in both Self and Rater forms. The Self form
measures self-perception of leadership behaviors. The Rater form is used to
measure leadership. By thinking about the leadership styles as exemplified
below, you can get a sense of your own belief about your leadership.
Key: 0 = Not 1 = Once in 2 = Sometimes 3 = Fairly 4 = Frequently,
at all a while often if not always
Transformational Leadership Styles
Idealized Influence I go beyond self-interest for the good 0 1 2 3 4
(Attributes) of the group.
Idealized Influence I consider the moral and ethical 0 1 2 3 4
(Behaviors) consequences of decisions.
Inspirational Motivation I talk optimistically about 0 1 2 3 4
the future.
Intellectual Stimulation I reexamine critical assumptions 0 1 2 3 4
to question whether they are
appropriate.
Individualized I help others to develop 0 1 2 3 4
Consideration their strengths.
Transactional Leadership Styles
Contingent Reward I make clear what one can expect 0 1 2 3 4
to receive when performance
goals are achieved.
Management by I keep track of all mistakes. 0 1 2 3 4
Exception: Active
Passive/Avoidant Leadership Styles
Management by I wait for things to go wrong before 0 1 2 3 4
Exception: Passive taking action.
Laissez-Faire I avoid making decisions. 0 1 2 3 4
SOURCE: Reproduced by special permission of the publisher, MIND GARDEN, Inc.,
www.mindgarden.com from the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire by Bernard M. Bass
and Bruce J. Avolio. Copyright © 1995, 2000, 2004 by Bernard M. Bass and Bruce J.
Avolio. Further reproduction is prohibited without the publisher’s written consent.