Making conflict work

Abstract

The relation between authentic leadership (AL) and conflict management is a topic that has not been extensively researched and merits further empirical examination. In this study, two hypotheses were tested: first, whether AL is positively correlated with active constructive conflict (ACC) behaviors, and second, whether the conflict management styles (CMSs) of the organization moderate the relationship between AL and ACC behaviors. Partial least square structural equation analysis was used to examine the responses of 65 leadership participants in a survey of management styles. The results supported the hypotheses. A statistically significant relationship was found between AL, as measured by the Authentic Leadership Questionnaire, and ACC behaviors, as measured by Thomas–Kilmann Instrument; CMSs, as measured by the Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory, moderated this relationship. The implications of these findings are discussed in detail.