Where is “behavior” in organizational behavior? A call for a revolution in leadership research and beyond

Abstract

Behaviors can be characterized as “the internally coordinated responses (actions or inactions) of whole living organisms (individuals or groups) to internal and/or external stimuli.” (Levitis et al., 2009). The study of behavior is a critical component of theory advancement in the area of leadership. Yet, a large number of leadership studies conflate behavioral and nonbehavioral concepts. First, our manuscript offers a theoretical discussion of why the absence of research on behavior is a growing concern for the advancement of theory in leadership. Evidence from a systematic review (k = 214) indicates that of 2338 variables only 3% are behavioral in nature (19% of studies include at least one behavioral measure). Second, we present a framework of behavior to better distinguish leader (follower) behaviors from other concepts. Finally, we provide a set of methodological recommendations to ensure alignment between theoretical conceptualizations and methodological choices.