Using organizational and management science theories to understand women and leadership

Authors:
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of select theories from the organizational and management sciences that inform women in leadership research. These theories are categorized by level - individual (micro) level, interpersonal (meso) level, and organizational (macro) - to look at the various leadership research focused on women that has been conducted at each level of analysis. Further, potential research questions that may advance extant understanding of women and leadership from the perspective of each theory are provided. The authors encourage future researchers working on women in leadership topics to continue to draw extensively on the organizational and management science theories discussed in this chapter. The multilevel approach offered by these theories can help address barriers to and opportunities for women and leadership at all levels in efforts to advance knowledge and practice leading to lasting change.