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Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0009-0001-9672-9298
Date Available
5-11-2027
Year of Publication
2026
Document Type
Capstone
Degree Name
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
College
Social Work
Department/School/Program
Social Work
Faculty
Dr. Laura Escobar-Ratliff, Director of Doctor of Social Work
Abstract
Leadership in healthcare and other care-based systems requires navigating complex emotional, relational, and organizational demands; however, leadership development often prioritizes technical skills over relational awareness. This capstone explores how attachment theory can inform leadership behavior and support reflective, emotionally attuned practices in high-stress environments.
The first component presents a systematic literature review examining the relationship between attachment orientation, emotional regulation, and leadership behavior. Findings suggest that secure attachment is associated with stronger emotional regulation, trust-building, and effective leadership, while insecure attachment may contribute to reactivity, relational strain, and burnout within teams.
The second component introduces a conceptual framework linking attachment orientation, emotional regulation, and leadership behavior to organizational outcomes such as psychological safety, workforce resilience, and team cohesion. The framework highlights the importance of culturally responsive and trauma-informed leadership practices shaped by both relational patterns and contextual factors.
The final component presents the Attachment-Informed Leadership Reflection Tool (AILRT), a practice-based assessment designed to support leader self-awareness, reflective supervision, and leadership development. Collectively, this capstone integrates research, theory, and practice to advance an attachment-informed model of leadership grounded in social work principles, with implications for leadership training, workforce well-being, and organizational culture.
Archival?
Archival
Recommended Citation
Skeete, Janell, "How Do You Lead? Advancing Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Across Social Work Systems of Care Through an Attachment Informed Lens" (2026). DSW Capstone Projects. 79.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/csw_grad_reports/79
Included in
Cognition and Perception Commons, Cognitive Psychology Commons, Community Psychology Commons, Counseling Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Development Studies Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Human Factors Psychology Commons, Leadership Studies Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Social Psychology Commons, Social Work Commons
