Which psychological theory posits that certain personality traits make individuals more prone to accepting authoritarian leadership?

The psychological theory that suggests specific personality traits lead individuals to be more susceptible to accepting authoritarian leadership is the Authoritarian Personality theory. This theory was developed by researchers like Theodor Adorno, who studied how certain characteristics, such as conventionalism, submissiveness to authority, and hostility towards out-groups, could predispose individuals to embrace authoritarian figures and ideologies.

Individuals identified as having an authoritarian personality tend to have rigid social hierarchies and a strong belief in traditional values. They often seek strong leaders to follow, particularly in times of uncertainty or social unrest, which makes them more likely to accept and support authoritarianism as a way to maintain order and stability in society. This predisposition can lead to a rejection of more egalitarian or democratic principles, favoring instead a more hierarchical and controlled social structure.

Other theories, such as Freedom theory or Supportive personality, do not specifically address the acceptance of authoritarian leadership and its connection to personality traits in the same manner. Conformity theory is more about how individuals align their attitudes or behaviors with those of a group under social pressure, rather than focusing specifically on the acceptance of authoritarianism due to inherent personality traits. Thus, the Authoritarian Personality theory is uniquely positioned to explain why certain individuals are more likely