Gender Differences in Leadership: Current Social Issues and Future Organizational Implications

Abstract

Executive Summary This paper seeks to review and discuss recent literature devoted to the tasks of identifying and explaining gender difference in leadership behavior(s) and effectiveness. In addition to reviewing U. S. and international trends in leader demographics, attention is paid to the social impact of perceived gender differences and the need for future research. Theoretical models are reviewed and discussed in terms of their contribution to arguments for and against gender differences. The contextual issues of national and organizational culture, stereotype, and perception of subordinate and superior roles are reviewed and discussed. Rationale for gender differences in leadership style are also reviewed within the context of perceptions of leadership effectiveness.