Neural Correlates of the Dual-Level Transformational Leadership Model

Katharina Leifker (Ecotel communication ag, Prinzenallee 11, 40549 Düsseldorf, NRW, Germany)
Mathias Diebig (Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Medical Faculty, Germany)
Ute Poethke (Hochschule für Polizei und öffentliche Verwaltung, Gelsenkirchen, NRW, Germany)
Jens Rowold (Center for Higher Education, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, NRW, Germany)

Journal of Leadership in Organizations
Vol 6, No 1 (2024): Journal of Leadership in Organizations

Introduction/Main Objectives: This study considered neural processes of transformational leadership based on quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG). Background Problems: This research aims at providing biomarkers for effective (i.e., transformational) leadership. Novelty: We considered transformational leadership on a detailed level, namely its individual-focused and group-focused sub-dimensions, to analyze the underlying brain processes. As for the individual-focused sub-dimensions of transformational leadership, we utilized innovation and performance orientation, while for the group-focused sub-dimensions, we choose vision and            team spirit. Research Methods: Fifty-two dyads, consisting of (a) student pairs and (b) supervisor-subordinate dyads, participated in a simulated role-play that was intended to be a performance review while the electrical activity of the brain was recorded. Finding/Results: Results show that the group-focused sub-dimensions of transformational leadership could be positively linked to right frontal lobe coherence and negatively linked to left frontal lobe coherence. Results showed no relation between the individual-focused sub-dimensions and frontal lobe coherence. Conclusion: The results allow for a deeper understanding of the neural processes of transformational leadership and its individual-focused and group-focused sub-dimensions, respectively.