Psychological Capital & Student Leadership: Does a student’s Psychological Capital influence their ability to attain leadership positions in post primary schools?

Abstract

The purpose of the research was to examine the concept of Psychological Capital (PsyCap) and its constructs of hope, self-efficacy, resilience and optimism. Furthermore, the research aimed to establish the links between PsyCap and its influence on leadership. The focus was specifically on establishing links between PsyCap and student leadership. To establish whether there were links between a student’s PsyCap and student leadership roles the students PsyCap was measured using a Psychological Capital Questionnaire and focus group interviews. The research found that there was a significant positive correlation between student leaders and their level of PsyCap.