Midstream without a Paddle: An Examination of Factors that Prevent Female Leaders from Entering Executive Waters

Abstract

Researchers have studied the differences between male and female leadership styles for several decades. Yet, much of the research has been contradictory and has not explained how successful females ascend to senior leadership positions or, more importantly, why some female leaders derail. This mixed-methods study investigated; 1) leadership traits possessed by a purposeful sample of female executives and mid-level managers, 2) derailing behavior patterns of female leaders, and 3) impacts of organizational environment on advancement for women. It was found that differences exist between the two groups in their derailing behaviors and how they manage role incongruence and leadership styles.