Destructive Work Behaviors in Higher Education

• In Event: Organizational Climate: Well-Being, Work Life Factors, and Leading Change

Abstract

Despite the prevalence of positive studies of leadership, a sizable stream of literature exists that addresses negative behaviors by those with positional authority, often termed “leadership.” The descriptors used to describe this type of “leadership” include toxic, destructive, tyrannical, bullying, and abusive. While many of the researchers in these areas work to develop solid definitions and conceptual frameworks, there is little agreement on which behaviors are tyrannical as opposed to narcissistic or bullying as opposed to toxic. This literature review synthesized research on the negative aspects of leadership, outlined the need for studying this type of leadership in the American higher education context, and suggested ways these studies may be conducted.

Authors

• Kristin Bailey Wilson, Western Kentucky University

• Trudy-Ann Crossbourne, Western Kentucky University