Final answer:
Trait theory (B) explains leadership based on innate qualities, with leaders possessing characteristic traits that predispose them to lead effectively. This theory contrasts with other leadership theories that focus on behaviors, skills, or situational factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of theory that explains leadership in terms of the innate characteristics of individuals who are leaders is B) Trait theory. Trait theory is centered on the idea that certain individuals are born with specific qualities that make them naturally suited to leadership roles. These traits can include sociability, assertiveness, optimism, and even temperament, as trait theorists such as Gordon Allport have categorized various personality traits into cardinal, central, and secondary traits.
Leadership styles and their effectiveness in relation to follower types are a complex topic within Industrial-Organizational (I-O) research. Not all leadership styles mesh well with all types of followers. For instance, some research suggests that extroverted followers may require more interaction with their leaders.