Group self-leadership and conscientiousness: A discriminant validation and linkage to work group effectiveness

Abstract

Work group theorists have proposed the importance of self-leadership on group effectiveness. Simultaneously, several authors have raised a question concerning the validity of the distinction between group self-leadership and conscientiousness. However, study in this area is yet rather limited. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the discriminant validity of the self-leadership dimensions from the conscientiousness dimensions and linkage to work group effectiveness. Data collected from 261 undergraduate students in 71 research work groups enrolled in business research methodology classes offered in the second semester 2015. At the individual level of analysis, factor analysis results show that self-leadership's dimensions (self-goal setting and constructive thought pattern) are discriminable from the dimensions of conscientiousness (achievement striving and dependability). At the group level of analysis, the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) reveals that the self-leadership is discriminable from the conscientiousness and work group effectiveness. Group self-leadership is the mediator in the relationship between group conscientiousness and effectiveness.