Empowerment and cognitive styles

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to examine the link between empowerment and cognitive styles. This was done by examining the cognitive preferences of individuals in leadership positions and assessing the perceptions of empowerment of their direct subordinates, using the appropriate measuring instruments.<br><br> An Analysis of variance revealed significant differences in perceptions of empowerment for different cognitive preferences. Furthermore, the cognitive preferences which yielded the highest perceptions of empowerment on the part of employees were holistic and emotive preferences. A discussion of these results is included, with limitations of the study. Thereafter, theoretical and practical implications of the present study are examined.