Final answer:
The statement that University of Michigan researchers found a universal theory of leadership is false. No single leadership style is universally effective in every situation, as the effectiveness of leadership depends on factors like cultural context, follower characteristics, and situational demands.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks whether researchers from the University of Michigan discovered a universal theory of leadership that can explain leadership effectiveness in every situation. The statement is false. Leadership studies, including those from the University of Michigan, have determined that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to leadership. Factors such as cultural differences, individual follower characteristics, and situational variables can all influence the effectiveness of a given leadership style. For example, transformational leadership may be more effective in certain contexts, but still, it does not guarantee success in every situation. Research findings suggest that leadership effectiveness can largely depend on the dynamic between leader and follower, as well as the leader's ability to adapt their style to fit the needs and personalities of their followers.
It is also noted that while research by Eagly, Johannesen-Schmidt, & van Engen (2003) found that transformational leadership is generally more effective than transactional approaches, leaders often exhibit a mix of both styles. Moreover, the research of Deanne N. Den Hartog and colleagues implies that there can be culture-specific attributes of leadership that are not universally endorsed. Therefore, the effectiveness of a particular leadership approach can be contingent upon many variables, making the notion of a universal theory unfeasible. The study of leadership continues to evolve, accounting for more complexities and the role of followership, affirming that the search for a single theory of leadership to apply universally remains elusive.