LEADERSHIP CHARACTERISTICS OF ... - Drake University

ups are transformational, then lower level employees are more likely to
emulate that behavior as they rise in an organization.
Transformational leadership also appears to occur more frequently
in cultures or societies that are considered collectivist as opposed to
individualist societies (Jung & Avolio, 1999). Collectivism, as represented
by some Eastern societies, describes a tight social framework in which
people expect others in their respective groups to look after them and
protect them. A mutual obligation of individuals exists whereby the
leaders have a moral responsibility to take care of the followers. In turn,
the followers have a moral obligation to reciprocate with loyalty and
obedience. lndivid ualistic societies, often associated with the West,
suggest that people are more motivated to satisfy their own self interests
and personal goals. Individuals take care of themselves and have higher
regard for individual achievements and rewards (Hofstede, 1993). It is
believed that certain leadership styles flourish in cultural settings which
complement one another.
45