Chapter 10 In the Minds of Followers

Think about the difference between what a leader means, versus what leadership means. In chapter 10 this same idea is discussed but in the context of a follower, versus followership. Like leadership, a follower evolves into the the area of followership. As discussed in the reading we start to develop our followership pattern in early childhood and we begin to mold our perception of a leader. As a follower, we tend to form a generic category of leadership which solidifies into our memory.

On pages 343-346 an important part of leader categories is discussed which addresses the issues of perception, or perhaps stereotypes, of leadership based upon experience and cultural context. Cultural values can have a direct influence on ones style of leadership and can trigger new perceptions and reactions from followers who may not be familiar with those cultural differences. If our perceptions, as a follower, of leader are formed in early childhood how could being able to adjust to a unfamiliar style of leadership effect us as followers? At some point in time, with increased globalization and ethnic blending within our culture, leadership dynamics based upon one majority culture will change. Is it hard to overcome stereotypes and perceptions about a different culture that may not be familiar to you?

I can admit that growing up in a African American household, with my parents and relatives being my leaders and role models, it was hard to adjust in school and sports teams where I saw no one who looked like me but were yet my leaders . They had different experiences and values than me in many ways, but I too shared many similar experiences with them. I have been so heavily integrated in the environment in which I live, but if you were put into a whole new surrounding or culture, how easy would it be for you to reformulate your memory or perception of leadership?