2.2.5 Syncretical Model of Charismatic Transformational Leadership (SMCTL)
Purpose
Behling and McFillen (1996) developed the Syncretical model of Charismatic Transformational leadership (SMCTL) to address limitations in existing leadership research. Their goal was to create a cohesive framework that integrates strengths and reconciles inconsistencies in existing theories on charismatic, transformational, and visionary leadership. Incorporating commonalities from existing models, they proposed instruments to measure both leader behaviors and follower beliefs. These instruments include the Leader Behavior Scale (LBS), which assesses six leader behaviors, and the Follower Belief Scale (FBS), which measures awe, inspiration, and empowerment in followers. The instrument targets middle and low-level (non-executive) leadership development.
Description
Behling and McFillen developed the SMCTL in 1996. The Leader Behavior Scale (LBS) has 18 items, and the Follower Belief Scale (FBS) has 15 items. Behling and McFillen (1996) reported strong evidence for the reliability and validity of the three FBS subscales. Cronbach alpha coefficients range from .80 to .85 for inspiration, from .88 to .95 for awe, and from .79 to .93 for empowerment. Alpha coefficients were robust: .85 for inspiration, .89 for awe, and .83 for empowerment.
Access
These instruments are accessible via academic journals and research databases, including in the relevant articles listed in the references section. Prior to usage, permission from the authors or copyright holders may be necessary. Contact the authors directly or consult the articles for more information on the availability and permissions.
References
Behling, O., & McFillen, J. M. (1996). A syncretical model of charismatic/transformational leadership. Group & Organization Management, 21(2), 163–191.
Thurrell, R. (2010). The development of a tactical level full range leadership measurement instrument (Publication No. 2123) [Master’s thesis, Air Force Institute of Technology]. AFIT Scholar. https://scholar.afit.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3124&context=etd
Mccann, J. A., Langford, P. H., & Rawlings, R. M. (2006). Testing Behling and McFillen’s syncretical model of charismatic transformational leadership. Group & Organization Management, 31(2), 237–263. https://doi.org/10.1177/105960110427306
