| Description |
A cultural history of gender inequality due to patriarchal social systems has resulted in a lack of women's leadership. A broad and encompassing definition of leadership, has limited our ability to understand adolescent female leadership. However, research studies determine that adolescent female leadership programming can act as an empowering tool, which increases self-esteem and leadership behavior among girls. This study explores the experiences of young women who are currently participating in a leadership forum to better understand their development as leaders. Findings from this research show that the developing identity of young women continues to be influenced by systems of patriarchy and gender-role stereotypes. The findings also suggest that empathic leadership and a community of shared leadership proves to be effective theories in adolescent leadership programming. |
