Construct proliferation in leadership style research

Abstract

Given the steady increase in new leadership models and approaches introduced to the field, we provide a systematic review on the topic of construct proliferation in the leadership style literature. Construct proliferation suggests that newly designed constructs are too similar to existing ones and, consequently, lack discriminant validity. In our review, we tackle the issue of construct proliferation from two perspectives. First, we present explanations and evidence indicating construct proliferation. Then, we take the opposing stance and provide arguments (as well as empirical evidence) against it. This comparison results in a discussion in which we provide cues for future leadership style research that builds on the realization that we need a more nuanced awareness of where construct proliferation exists and where it does not.