Leadership and the LGBT community: an exploration of how competing identities lead to fluctuations in concept of ability.

Priestnall, Chris

Abstract

This research investigates identity development among LGBT individuals and its impact on the formation of leadership identity. Navigating the complexities of sexual orientation can often be challenging, intensified by societal expectations. During adolescence, victimisation experiences contribute to a complex interplay between sexual and leadership identity development, influencing career aspirations.
The methodology used in this research is grounded in a narrative and phenomenological inquiry, aligning with a constructivist qualitative paradigm. A subjectivist approach, driven by social constructivism, forms the core of the study, with seventeen participants selected from the LGBT community through a non-probability sampling strategy. Face-to-face interviews provide a rich narrative that captures the many challenges faced by individuals struggling with their sexual and leadership identity development.
Data analysis reveals issues such as bullying, stigma, and violence against the LGBT community, leading to mental health concerns. The absence of role models in various areas of life challenges the recognition of achievable success, hindering leadership identity growth. Authenticity issues at work, fear of discrimination, and the adoption of heterosexual personas for safety further add to the challenges faced by LGBT individuals.
Participants' narratives clarify the isolation, rejection, and anxiety experienced while struggling with their sexual minority status, hindering authentic self-expression. Lack of safe spaces and support contributes to the internalisation of sexuality and mental health issues, creating a divide between sexual and leadership development. The impact of the absence of LGBT role models, both personally and in the media, potentially reflects continual homophobia. Negative workplace experiences are prevalent, with fear of colleagues' perceptions affecting openness about sexuality, leading to conflicts, prejudice, and discrimination. Socioeconomic backgrounds play a vital role in shaping both sexual and leadership development, as participants use these challenges as motivational drivers.
Recommendations stemming from this research emphasise the importance of safe spaces, health and wellbeing support, and training programs in educational and workplace settings. A focus on leadership opportunities, inclusive policies, and allyship programs is proposed to foster supportive environments, educating both LGBT and non-LGBT individuals and potentially alleviating challenges faced by LGBT individuals in their journey towards becoming future leaders.
In conclusion, this research uncovers the intricate intersection of minority sexuality and leadership identity development among the LGBT community, shedding light on the influences of childhood experiences, parental impact, socioeconomic status, and role models. Despite the study's limitations, it highlights the urgent need for more focused research on LGBT leadership and role models to inform interventions that promote a more inclusive and supportive future for
the development of LGBT individuals as leaders.

Citation

Priestnall, C. Leadership and the LGBT community: an exploration of how competing identities lead to fluctuations in concept of ability. (Thesis). University of Hull. https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4866528

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Oct 15, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Oct 29, 2024
• Keywords: Human resource management
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4866528
• Additional Information: Business School; University of Hull
• Award Date: Jul 16, 2024