Understanding the Leadership Construct of Young Women Leaders

This study, the first part of a four-part dissertation, investigated the leadership construct of eight young women student leaders, four in middle adolescence and four in late adolescence from Metro Manila Philippines, using the multiple case study approach. Four were from sectarian schools, and four were from non-sectarian schools. Results show four major themes: positive values, positive identity, guide and source of inspiration, and collaboration skills. Participants’ leadership construct included both traditional female and male leadership qualities. Compared to middle adolescent participants, late adolescents’ leadership constructs reflect more themes of positive values and identities. Compared to non-sectarian school participants, sectarian school participants reflect more collaboration skills themes. This study argues that understanding young women’s leadership construct should be included in a complex leader identity formation process that identifies explicitly and integrates young women’s leadership values or behavioral standards.