Characteristics of leadership styles of students of the University of Donja Gorica

The research performed on a sample of 210 students of the University of Donja Gorica (UDG), Podgorica, Montenegro, aimed to determine their leadership profiles' characteristics and examine the possible connection and the impact of selected demographic variables on its manifestation. In accordance with the total transformational leadership of Bass and Avolio, the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-5X, self-rated version) was applied to measure the components of transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership. The results of descriptive, comparative (t-test and ANOVA) and correlational analysis of the obtained data showed that the leadership profiles of UDG students are characterized by high scores for the transformational leadership factors (individual consideration, charisma, inspirational motivation, and intellectual stimulation), also followed by high scores for the contingent reward factors and management by exception - active related to transactional leadership, but with lowest scores for management by exception - passive and laissez-faire leadership. Such a leadership profile with predominant transformational qualities makes a good base for future leadership effectiveness. The results of the impact of demographic variables (gender and playing sports) were discussed in the context of their consistency/ inconsistency with the findings of previous research, theoretical and practical implications, and, specifically, regarding current policy and vision of UDG, entirely compatible with strategies used by efficient transformational leaders.