Reliability and Validity of a Factor Analytically Derived Measure of Leadership Behavior and Characteristics

Abstract

Reliability and validity data are presented for 13 factor-analytically derived leadership assessment scales. Self-ratings were gathered from 385 managers and parallel form ratings were collected from four to six co-workers (subordinates, peers and superiors, n = 1,965). Factor analysis of 220 leader behavior items produced 13 leadership assessment scales: Coaching and Mentoring Others; Sensitivity to Others; Integrity in Dealing With Others; Participative Behaviors; Criticism of Others; Self-Serving Behavior; Charismatic Behavior; Incisiveness; Risk Taking; Hesitancy; Directness; Future Orientation; and Motivation. The 13 scales show high internal consistency; strong inter-rater (peer, subordinate, superior) reliability; and moderate convergence of self-ratings and aggregated ratings by others. In addition, the 13 scales prove useful in explaining subjective ratings of influence and leadership as well as self-reported salary and salary progression.