When leaders express negative emotions such as irritability and withdrawal, behavior is often judged differently for male and female leaders, according to new research from Griffith University published in the International Journal of Stress Management. The study of 190 professionals examined how leaders’ emotions and behaviors transferred to employees and how gender dynamics shaped employees’ responses.

Researchers found leaders’ emotions often crossed over indirectly to employees, influencing well-being, attitudes and workplace behavior.

Associate Professor Carys Chan from the Department of Management at Griffith Business School said leadership behavior was frequently interpreted through gendered expectations.

“When leaders experience job stress or other psychological strain, their emotions and behaviors can influence how employees feel and respond at work,” Associate Professor Chan said.

Read more at: https://phys.org/news/2026-04-leadership-emotions-differently-men-women.html