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Pursuing a future leader self: A multi‐study investigation of leader identity and its motivational and behavioural outcomes

Morgan, Richard; Braun, Susanne; Epitropaki, Olga

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Abstract

Developing as a leader is widely recognized as a challenging endeavour that takes time. However, little research has been done to explain the process through which future representations of oneself as a leader relate to current leader identity and how future and current leader selves motivate action. Integrating possible selves theory with identity‐based motivation theory and across three independent studies, we test a serial‐mediation model in which a salient future leader self sequentially relates to leader identity, affective motivation to lead, and proactive leadership behaviour. Our Pilot Study (N = 186) was conducted at two time points over a year apart with employees from a manufacturing company. Study 1 (N = 265) included repeated measurement at three time points, each a month apart, with employees from different industries. Study 2 (N = 301) included repeated measurement at four time points, each 2 weeks apart, with employees from different industries. Cross‐lagged analyses provided support for our hypothesized process model and allowed us to examine reciprocal relationships. The theoretical implications for leadership and leader identity theory are discussed along with the practical implications for prospective leaders and their development in organizations.

Citation

Morgan, R., Braun, S., & Epitropaki, O. (2025). Pursuing a future leader self: A multi‐study investigation of leader identity and its motivational and behavioural outcomes. Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, 98(1), Article e70014. https://doi.org/10.1111/joop.70014

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Feb 2, 2025
Online Publication Date Feb 18, 2025
Publication Date 2025-03
Deposit Date Feb 10, 2025
Publicly Available Date Feb 26, 2025
Journal Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology
Print ISSN 0963-1798
Electronic ISSN 2044-8325
Publisher Wiley
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 98
Issue 1
Article Number e70014
DOI https://doi.org/10.1111/joop.70014
Keywords future leader self, leader identity, motivation to lead, proactive leadership behavior
Public URL https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/3469104
This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals:

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-Being

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

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