Transformational leadership and depressive symptoms: A prospective study

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to examine the association between transformational leadership and depressive symptoms in employees working within healthcare.Method447 employees completed a baseline survey and 274 completed a follow-up survey 18 months later. 188 completed both baseline and follow-up survey. Transformational leadership was measured using the Global Transformational Leadership Scale and depression was measured using with the Major Depression Inventory.ResultsTransformational leadership was negatively associated with depressive symptoms at baseline (β = − 0.31, p < .01, 8% variance) follow-up (β = − 0.25, p < .01, 3% variance) and prospectively (β = − 0.21, p < .05, 4% variance).ConclusionManagers with a transformational leadership style may help toward protecting employees from developing major depression.