transformational leadership

organizational research

leadership quarterly

leader follower

leadership research

leader behavior

Leadership Quarterly

Behaviors can be characterized as “the internally coordinated responses (actions or inactions) of whole living organisms (individuals or groups) to internal and/or external stimuli.” (Levitis et al., 2009). The study of behavior is a critical component of theory advancement in the area of leadership. Yet, a large number of leadership studies conflate behavioral and nonbehavioral concepts. First, our manuscript offers a theoretical discussion of why the absence of research on behavior is a growing concern for the advancement of theory in leadership. Evidence from a systematic review (k = 214) indicates that of 2338 variables only 3% are behavioral in nature (19% of studies include at least one behavioral measure). Second, we present a framework of behavior to better distinguish leader (follower) behaviors from other concepts. Finally, we provide a set of methodological recommendations to ensure alignment between theoretical conceptualizations and methodological choices.

Where is “behavior” in organizational behavior? A call for a revolution in leadership research and beyond