Mistaking over-confidence for great leadership? Derailment archetypes and follower perceptions

Whereas leadership research once primarily focused on the positive aspects of leadership, or the effective behaviours that leaders show, more contemporary research looks into the more dysfunctional tendencies leaders might display. Leadership derailment has been a much discussed issue in recent years, particularly given its negative role in limiting the extent to which individuals may make the most of their talents in leadership roles. Recent events within the context of the economic downturn have revealed numerous examples of this. Consequently, there has been growing awareness of the important role that the shadow side of leadership plays in understanding leadership effectiveness.