Final answer:
The statement that a leader's ability to understand a problem from another person's view is known as perspective taking and is a key leadership competency is true. This form of cognitive empathy is crucial for effective leadership and for fostering functional leader-follower relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
A leader's ability to understand a problem from another person's view is indeed a key competency known as perspective taking. This concept aligns with the broader notion of cognitive empathy, which means the ability to take the perspective of others and to feel concern for them. As research suggests, cognitive empathy rises during adolescence and plays a significant role in social problem-solving and conflict avoidance.
In the context of leadership, perspective taking is essential because it helps a leader to relate to and understand their followers, thereby fostering a more effective leader-follower dynamic. Understanding the constructivist view, leaders can use their personal power to influence perceptions and behaviors. Therefore, the statement given in the question is A) True.