Abstract

This study posits a new research model for Armenian American leadership. The study aims to fill the void in Armenian American leadership literature, while adding to the leadership studies of other ethnic and racial groups in the United States of America. Furthermore, this study aims at discovering the unique characteristics of Armenian American Leadership in relation to cultural acculturation and more specifically how Anglo-cultural influences in leadership may or may not enable a better understanding of diversity within the Armenian American community, along with the role of trend development. This study examines similarities and differences of leadership styles by analyzing the data both from elected officials and none elected leaders of major Armenian organization in Glendale (who are not elected by registered voters of City of Glendale, but by members of their organization). Furthermore, the study examines the relationship between leadership style, and acculturation in Glendale among Armenian American elected leaders, and non-elected leaders. Specifically, the study aims to determine specific and unique leadership behaviors among respondents reflecting perceived leadership styles, and their commitment to a cause. Additionally, this study seeks leader identification of individual acculturation level as means of examining associations between acculturation, and leadership styles. Correlational analyses were performed to compare the study's findings based on samples drawn from the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) and Acculturation Rating Scale for Armenian Americans (ARSAA) developed by using the Acculturation Rating Scale for Mexican Americans (ARSMA-II), whereas, past similar scales have never used literature and data to justify the revision and adaptation of the scale from "Mexican" to "Armenian" but this study does. The study aims to increase understanding of Glendale's Armenian American residents, and community leaders in terms of leadership perception, style, and relationship to the future and growth of the community. Additional exploration of the relationship between acculturation, and self-perceived leadership style, of Glendale's Armenian American elected leaders will add to the body of leadership literature pertaining to acculturation, as well as to Armenian American ethnic culture, self-identity, and overall influence within the culture. Lastly, the study will enable deeper understanding of history, dynamics, and characteristics of Armenian Americans in Glendale by penetrating the history of the community and leaders, all with an eye on present dynamics. It is anticipated that this study will lead to future studies of ethnic-specific leadership styles, especially those of the under-researched Armenian American community.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Dissertations (EdD) -- Organizational leadership; Leadership; Armenian Americans -- California -- Glendale; Armenian Americans -- California -- Glendale -- Ethnic identity

Date of Award

2014

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Schmieder-Ramirez, June;

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