The Power of Voice: Exploring Social Identity and Follower Constructive Voice Behavior - G. Malone & D. Alegbeleye This session explores follower constructive voice behavior, the act of speaking up to challenge the status quo and advocate for change, through the lens of social identity. This presentation examines the literature to identify gaps and calls for inclusive leadership practices that incorporate diverse lived experiences into organizational learning. By understanding how social identity influences follower constructive voice behavior, organizations can foster resilient, proactive followership and leverage diverse perspectives to drive meaningful, systemic change.
From What You Need to Who You Are: Psychological Needs and Follower Role Identity - L. Haney What do people seek out when they take on the role of leader or follower? Is it a desire to influence or connect with others? To find success or master their environment? This research presentation aims to explore the complex relationship between five psychological needs and role selection within group activities. The data reveals patterns that answer why people choose their roles in the first place, how exercising that choice satisfies or frustrates needs, and how that process ultimately leads to role-identity formation. In addition, we will consider the implications of using individual psychology within followership development contexts.
Developing a Followership Identity: A Grounded Theory - D. Jenkins & M. Gray This grounded theory study investigates how individuals develop their followership identity within organizational contexts. Through interviews with 16 undergraduate students identified as exemplary team members, the research reveals a six-stage developmental progression from pre-team awareness to adaptive followership. Analysis identifies three fundamental themes shaping this development: formative influences, evolving team dynamics, and sustained engagement factors. The findings demonstrate how followership identity evolves from hierarchical understanding to sophisticated systemic awareness through recursive development cycles. This research extends existing frameworks by illuminating specific developmental stages while offering practical implications for organizational development programs.
