Pseudo-Transformational Leadership: Towards the Development and Test of a Model

Julian Barling, Amy Christie, Nick Turner

Journal of Business Ethics · 2008 · Volume 81 · Issue 4

Abstract

We develop and test a model of pseudo-transformational leadership. Pseudo-transformational leadership (i.e., the unethical facet of transformational leadership) is manifested by a particular combination of transformational leadership behaviors (i.e., low idealized influence and high inspirational motivation), and is differentiated from both transformational leadership (i.e., high idealized influence and high inspirational motivation) and laissez-faire (non)-leadership (i.e., low idealized influence and low inspirational motivation). Survey data from senior managers (N= 611) show differential outcomes of transformational, pseudo-transformational, and laissez-faire leadership. Possible extensions of the theoretical model and directions for future research are offered.

Keywords

ethical leadership, pseudo-transformational leadership, senior managers, transformational leadership

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