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Article
Exploring The Developmental Potential Of Leader-Follower Interactions: A Constructive-Developmental Approach
The Leadership Quarterly
  • Sorin Valcea, Cleveland State University
  • Maria R. Hamdani, University of Akron
  • M. R. Buckley, University of Oklahoma
  • Milorad M. Novicevic, University of Mississippi
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-1-2011
Keywords
  • constructive developmental theory; followers; LMX; leader-follower interactions; human resources
Abstract

Researchers in leadership have long recognized the important role of leaders in developing the competencies of followers.More recently, however, scholars have begun to emphasize the pivotal role of followers in the development of leaders.We use constructive developmental theory (e.g., Kegan, 1982; Loevinger & Blasi, 1976) to suggest that both leaders and followers influence the development of the meaningmaking systems of their counterparts in leader–follower dyads. We argue that a combination of challenge – in the formof delegation, participation, and feedback – and support – in the form of positive leader–follower relationships – works to promote the development ofmore complex meaningmaking systems in leaders and followers, thus enriching both individuals in the dyad.

DOI
10.1016/j.leaqua.2011.05.003
Version
Postprint
Citation Information
Valcea, S., Hamdani, M.R., Buckley, M.R., & Novicevic, M.M. (2011). Exploring the developmental potential of leader-follower interactions: A constructive-developmental approach. The Leadership Quarterly, 22(4), 604-615. doi: 10.1016/j.leaqua.2011.05.003