Exploring the Impact of Authentic Leadership on Socioeconomic Outcomes among Early-Career Media Professionals: An Empirical Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t7080Abstract
The study sought to determine the effect of authentic leadership on socioeconomic outcomes among young media professionals in Nairobi County, Kenya. Anchored on Social Influence Theory, the study adopted descriptive and explanatory research designs. Study population was 45 TV stations from which 244 respondents were selected. Data was obtained using a structured questionnaire and an interview guide. Response rate was 57.5% for quantitative data and 92% for qualitative data, which was analysed using descriptive and inferential techniques, and thematically, respectively. The study found that all the dimensions of authentic leadership were from moderate to high extent practiced and emphasized, with internalized moral perspective recording the highest mean score (M=3.952, SD=0.824). Correlation results revealed significant positive correlations between all authentic leadership dimensions and socioeconomic outcomes, with internalized moral perspective being the highest (r=0. 635, p<.05). Regression results showed that self-awareness had the strongest relative effect on socioeconomic outcomes (B=0.635, p<.05). A strong positive relationship was established, suggesting that authentic leadership explained 58.1% of the variance in socioeconomic outcomes. Qualitative insights from key industry experts confirmed that these dimensions are actively practiced within the industry. The study concluded that authentic leadership, especially through self-awareness and moral conviction, has significant influence on socioeconomic outcomes among young media professionals in Nairobi County, Kenya. By combining statistical analysis with personal testimonies, it shows that authentic leaders can foster ethical behaviour, trust, and organizational norms through social influence channels.
Key words: Authentic Leadership, Balanced Processing, Internalized Moral Perspective, Relational Transparency, Self-Awareness, Socioeconomic Outcomes.
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