Associating Values Clarification, Expression of Beliefs And Dysfunction Among Church Lay Leaders

Abstract

Leaders face both intrinsic and extrinsic challenges to their effectiveness. Specific dysfunctions rank high among the intrinsic challenges. In this regard, a relevant literature review suggested that the discovery and articulation of values and beliefs may ameliorate at least some of these dysfunctions. To test this possibility, data were obtained from 84 lay leaders in two church congregations in Tennessee using the following instruments: The Dark Side Leadership Profile (DSLP) measured five self-reported dysfunctions, codependence, compulsion, paranoia, narcissism, and passive-aggressive tendencies, and Modeling-the-Way Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI-Self) measured self-reported discovery and authentic expression of values and beliefs. The significant inverse relationship observed between Modeling-the-Way LPI-Self scores and DSLP indicated general agreement with predictions and previous research. These results suggest that the more lay leaders can discover and authentically express their values and beliefs, the lower their level of dysfunction and the more effective their leadership may be perceived to be.