Integrity and Leadership: A Multi-Level Conceptual Model and Partial Test

Integrity is frequently used in management literature as a normative descriptor, especially with regard to leadership. The study of integrity, though, suffers from three significant problems: too many definitions, too little theory, and too few rigorous empirical studies. This dissertation addresses the first problem by presenting a review of the definitions and uses of integrity in the management literature and proposing a specific conceptualization of integrity (the consistency of an acting entity’s words and actions) as a basis for further research. This paper addresses the second problem by suggesting how integrity may be conceptualized at different levels of analysis (individual, group, and organization) with a particular emphasis on the role of leadership in fostering integrity at these levels. Finally, this paper addresses the third issue with three studies to test for the effects of integrity and leadership style on various outcomes at the individual and group levels of analysis.