Lost leaders: a study of the factors influencing their motivation

Guerrero Patiño, Claudia

Abstract

In Mexican culture, traditional gender expectations play a significant role in influencing women's perceptions of leadership. The concepts of marianismo and machismo establish social roles for women that affect their self-esteem and perceived self-efficacy. The introduction of women's suffrage in Mexico has allowed women to participate in politics, but cultural influences such as the Virgin of Guadalupe and traditional values still perpetuate inequality and stereotypes. Observational learning, self-efficacy and social expectations have a profound impact on women's expectations of leadership. Overcoming gender stereotypes and fostering self-efficacy are crucial for Mexican women to meet the challenges of leadership. Gender stereotypes and societal perceptions can limit women's leadership opportunities due to traditional beliefs about appropriate leadership skills and characteristics.
Through an interpretative phenological analysis, the study discusses the expectations of women leaders in Mexico and the potential for observing successful women leaders in their environment to cultivate leadership role expectations and develop confidence in one's own abilities. The theory also posits that individuals with high levels of self-efficacy are more likely to assume leadership roles and effectively address challenges. Consequently, fostering a sense of self-efficacy is of paramount importance for Mexican women to overcome gender stereotypes and effectively navigate the challenges associated with leadership roles.
Interviews conducted in the study confirm the influence of gender stereotypes on social norms and expectations, which prevent women from achieving leadership positions. Female leaders face additional pressure to demonstrate their abilities and may be judged more harshly for mistakes or failures. Emotional adjustment to gender roles, self-efficacy and self-esteem are situational factors that influence women's leadership decisions.
Cultural and gender expectations have a significant impact on women's perceptions of leadership. To address these issues and promote equal opportunities, cultural and educational change is needed that challenges gender stereotypes, provides gender equality education, promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and implements mentoring programmes and gender equality policies.

Citation

Guerrero Patiño, C. (2024). Lost leaders: a study of the factors influencing their motivation. (Thesis). University of Hull. https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/5089474

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Mar 26, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 8, 2025
• Keywords: Marketing and business strategy
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/5089474
• Additional Information: Marketing and Business Strategy; Business School; University of Hull
• Award Date: Jun 10, 2024