Leadership Characteristics Through The Lens of Translocational Positionality Framework: Trailblazing Women in Policing

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of trailblazing women leaders in US police organizations as viewed through the lens of translocational positionality framework (TPF). The intent was to determine if as “trailblazers” their leadership strategies might have differed from other leaders in police organizations. This exploratory qualitative study used a purposive sample of 13 trailblazing leaders and conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews. Using a grounded theory methodology, the author found the women police leaders’ behaviors and leadership characteristics were fluid based on the context and circumstances of the situation. The themes of authority and presence emerged as the leaders proved to be highly capable and component caregivers, selfless servants, over-achievers, and great communicators who balanced both male and female leadership behaviors. The findings revealed that the trailblazing participants were unique, and their leadership strategies were different from their colleagues because they were willing to create their own path to leadership opportunities.