Personality Traits and Military Leadership

Author(s): Judith L. Johnson, William R. Hill

DOI: https://doi.org/10.65030/idr.07001

Abstract: This study used a frame of reference manipulation to ascertain personality characteristics of "effective" versus "ineffective" leaders. A sample of military officers (N = 57) completed the observer-rating version of the NEO-PI-R, rating the effective leader versus the ineffective leader. Results indicated a significant difference between the effective and ineffective leader frame of reference condition in Neuroticism, with the effective leader rated as lower on this variable. The effective leader was rated as significantly higher in Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness than the ineffective leader. Results are discussed in the context of previous research on personality and leadership, with particular attention to military leadership.

Keywords: Personality; Command of troops; Military science; Leadership; Military officers; Performance standards

Pages: 1-13

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