The Role of Informal Member Leaders in a System Containing Formal Leaders

The purpose of this descriptive field study was to explore the processes associated with the emergence of informul member leaders in a temporary system contatinig formal leaders. Four individuals were identified by theirpeers as member leaders during a Group Relations Conference. The verbal behaviors of the 4 member leaders were traced throughout the conference and compared with those of their nonmember peers. Discriminant analyses revealed a number of differences in the interaction patterns of memberleaders and nonleaders. The findigs suggested that member leaders in a system containing formal leaders opposed the formal leaders and task The study concluded that research on the leadership function in groups and organizations should be expanded to investigate the role of member leaders in creating culture, directing activities, and influencing system outcomes.