The Corporate Family Model of Leadership Development

Abstract

This article introduces the concept of the “corporate family,” and discusses the use of family systems theory in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of workplace pathology and dysfunction. As a leadership development company started by Steve Wilke, Ph.D., LEADon Inc. has been working with organizations for nearly two decades to increase their productivity and profitability. In these consultations, traditional leadership development methods proved not to be as effective as anticipated in relieving workplace dysfunction. Utilizing the Corporate Family Model, which blends traditional leadership development interventions with family systems theory to treat workplace pathology, Dr. Wilke has been able to significantly improve organization’s relational functioning, enhance emotional intelligence, and increase the productivity and profitability of his clientele. Using the Corporate Family Model in leadership development training, along with the core principles of family systems theory, has led to fundamental change and improvement in the culture of many organizations. Further explanation of the Corporate Family Model, its blend of family systems theory and traditional leadership development, and how it can positively impact workplace culture are discussed in this article.