Abstract

This thesis focuses on the interplay between narcissistic traits of CEOs, culture and organizational outcomes. More specifically, this thesis will study the cultural selection of narcissistic traits in CEOs as well as its effects on perceived organizational outcomes, all from a follower’s perspective. Narcissistic individuals who occupy leadership positions have specific ways of impacting organizational outcomes, be it in negative ways through the “darker” traits such as Arrogance and Machiavellianism or positive ways through “brighter traits” of Charisma and Intellectual Prowess. Cultures, however, differ in their conceptualization of power and their interpretation of those specific traits. In order to explore the relationships between the variables, the study uses an intuitive method based on Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping. The study will help in the understanding of how cultures appraise specific traits as well as how followers respond to those traits in organizational settings across cultures.