Early Socialization of Adolescent Female Student Leaders: Gender Stereotypes, Leadership Purpose, and Role Models

Abstract

This study was the last part of a four-part dissertation that investigated the early socialization patterns of eight female student leaders in middle and late adolescence from sectarian and non-sectarian schools in Metro Manila, Philippines. Guided by the Developmental Assets Framework, results show themes related to gender stereotypes, leadership purpose, and role models, in addition to themes related to perceived disadvantages and advantages of female leaders. Younger participants' responses reflect a stronger dependence on others, while older participants exhibit a more stable and deeper appreciation of their leadership role, which could be linked to identity achievement. Although all participants identified female role models, more non-sectarian participants identified male role models (brother, father, and uncle) compared to sectarian participants. Overall, one of the most important findings of this study involves participants' critical appraisal of negative gender stereotypes of female leadership. In addition, leadership experiences and socialization show that Generation Z participants' more sustained exposure to positive and more diverse role models from social media may largely explain their critical appraisal of gender stereotypes.