The distinction between personalized charismatic leaders and socialized charismatic leaders is presented in this paper in terms of personality characteristics and typical behaviors. The motivation to be a leader is rooted in psychodynamic processes in early childhood. The article focuses on these motivational aspects, claiming that the personalized charismatic leader's personality is rooted in processes explained by narcissistic models and concepts (especially those of Kohut), while the roots of the socialized charismatic leader lie in processes related to absence of the father. Implications of these arguments are discussed.