Abstract:

Due to the chilling examples of ethical scandals and management malfeasance, research has paid more attention to authentic leadership. Based on theoretical and 67 quantitative empirical studies published in last 10 years, this article reviewed the scientific status of authentic leadership. The review indicated that: (1) Either trait/behavioral perspective or process perspective was utilized to conceptualize authentic leadership; (2) Specific measures, coupled with rating sources and methods were developed to assess authentic leadership; (3) Antecedents of authentic leadership consisted of both individual and situational variables; (4) Authentic leadership was found to bring positive outcomes for individuals, teams and organizations through mechanisms of positive organizational behavior, social learning, social identity and social exchange. We concluded with an agenda for future research on the conceptualization, measurement, nomological network, and cross-cultural/indigenous investigation of authentic leadership.

Key words: authentic leadership, authenticity, leadership effectiveness, positive organizational behavior