Development of implicit leadership theories prior to training or employment

Abstract

This empirical study explored the development of implicit leadership theories among 16 to 18 year-old students in secondary schools prior to any formal leadership training or full-time employment. Students from governance, athletics, clubs, performance groups, and part-time work groups completed interviews and questionnaires. Adult leaders of activity groups also completed questionnaires. Results were analyzed by activity and role (e.g., student leader, student group member, and adult supervisor) for three separate dependent variables: Adult Leaders, Leaders in General, and Student Leaders. Results show that adolescents categorize leader behavior into similar constructs that have been previously established by research with adult samples experienced in organizational life. Experience in groups but not necessarily as a leader contributes to developing implicit leadership theories and type of activity guides such leadership attributions. Gender differences in the expectations for leaders were found and support the existence of early socialization into gender-specific leadership role stereotypes.