Agent-based modeling and the emergence of leadership in new teams: optimizing decision making from an ethical leadership perspective

Introduction: This article explored how NetLogo algorithms simulate the emergence of leadership in newly formed teams, analyzing both the "public perception" and "identity" of the leader and follower. Methodology: A probabilistic approach was used to determine whether an individual assumes leadership or concedes it, based on variables such as their self-assessment of their role and others' perceptions of their capabilities. Using an Agent-Based Model (ABM), the dynamics of ethical leadership (EL) and interactions between agents were investigated, providing a theoretical and practical framework for improving decision-making (DM) in changing organizational environments. Results: The findings demonstrated synergies between ABM and leadership development in teams. In homogeneous environments, leaders emerged slowly, in a distributed manner, and fostered collaboration. In contrast, in hierarchical environments, leaders emerged rapidly, favoring short-term efficiency. Conclusions: The study suggest that disruptive situations can severely affect the stability of the current leader. However, this also created an opportunity for new leaders to emerge, thus promoting group resilience. On the other hand, it is noted that a lack of ethics in leadership can generate disappointment and mistrust, affecting organizational cohesion and performance.