Do Big 5 Personality Characteristics and Narcissism Predict Engagement in Leader Development? Articles uri icon

publication date

  • September 2018

start page

  • 1

end page

  • 12

issue

  • Art. 1817

volume

  • 9

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1664-1078

abstract

  • This study examines personality as a predictor of engagement behavior displayed during leader development programs. Leader development engagement behavior (LDEB) is measured by collecting self- and director ratings of behaviors displayed by undergraduate students during 1-year leader development programs (e.g., showing interest in a variety of topics, maintaining a positive attitude, arriving prepared for meetings, engaging with peers, and reflecting on development). Results suggest that factors of the Big 5 personality characteristics and the Narcissism Personality Inventory predict engagement behaviors in leader development. Post hoc analysis was conducted to better understand patterns of relationships between Big 5 factors and narcissism with specific LDEBs. Narcissism is negatively correlated with director ratings of reflection on development and engagement with peers. As a result of this research, leader development program directors should consider the benefits and risks of including narcissistic individuals in leader development programs.

keywords

  • personality; narcissism; leadership development; extraversion; agreeableness; big 5