Analysis of self-concept of men leaders and women leaders in Gran Concepción

Abstract

Historically, gender inequality has existed, where women
have been undermined in all areas of their lives, especially
in leadership. An example of this is the term “glass ceiling”.
In this context, this study was based on the Implicit
Theories of Leadership (ITL’s). This set of theories covers
the evolution that the concept of leadership has undergone,
allowing it to be defined according to four areas: traits, styles,
contingency and relationships.
This research aims to analyze the existing gender differences
in the self-concept of leaders of organizations
established in Gran Concepción, identifying and categorizing
these differences, as well as relating them to gender
stereotypes present in this area.
This qualitative study was developed with a discretionary
sampling, interviewing male and female leaders of formal
organizations in the ten communes of Gran Concepción.
The organizations were divided into for-profit, non-profit and
state organizations. The data collected were analyzed under
Grounded Theory.
Among the results, “male leadership” revealed a
balance between concern for the task and for people, doubts
about their leadership and a feeling of inadequacy to lead.
In contrast, women reported great confidence in being
leaders and acknowledged having the same or more capabilities
than the opposite gender. They also described themselves
as open to dialogue, establishing transformational
relationships and adapting to the context.
Given the findings, further research is needed on the insecurity
of male leaders in the face of increasing female leadership.