Hubristic organizational leaders: a systematic literature review

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to integrate academic research on hubristic organizational leaders by proposing a comprehensive conceptual framework and research directions on the hubristic literature.Design/methodology/approachThe paper systematically reviewed 25 years of literature on hubristic organizational leaders based on the PRISMA methodology.FindingsThe literature on hubristic leaders is analyzed, and a conceptual framework is presented that highlights the antecedent, consequence, mediators and moderators. Literature has primarily focused on the negative impact of hubris leadership concerning firm performance and destructive behaviors. Few scholars have explored the positive side of hubris leadership, relating it to innovation and product success.Originality/valueThis paper presents the first systematic review of hubristic organizational leaders, to the best of the authors’ knowledge. The review provides an improved grasp of the current status of research, trends and potential future research directions.