Researcher ORCID Identifier
0000-0002-8430-9579
Graduation Year
2024
Date of Submission
12-2023
Document Type
Open Access Senior Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Psychology
Reader 1
Ronald E. Riggio
Abstract
A dentist holds a unique leadership position in which they must lead their dental practice, their dental staff, and their patients. The multifaceted nature of the occupation requires a combined team effort, and a cohesive partnership can be inspired through transformational leadership. Transformational leadership is a mutual process where leaders and followers empower one another and develop together toward a shared vision. Its effectiveness is implemented by the leader and further maintained by the followers. A transformational leader within a dentist can be manifested through the 4I’s of transformational leadership: idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individual consideration. The four components supplement one another to establish a supportive work environment that motivates dental staff to pursue high quality dental care and find meaningfulness and satisfaction within their work. An authentic and caring dental team translates immediately onto patients who feel more comfortable and relaxed, and in turn are more willing to comply with treatment recommendations and be led through better oral hygiene practices. There is a positive feedback loop present within the application of transformational leadership in dentistry, a mutual benefit found across the board; the dentist finds balanced teamwork with their dental team, increased patient retention, and a growing dental business; the dental staff acquire personal and career development, and job satisfaction; and the patients are eased of their dental anxiety and see improved oral health and overall well-being.
Recommended Citation
Jun, Irene, "Applying Transformational Leadership to Dentistry: Finding a Leader In a Dentist" (2024). CMC Senior Theses. 3426.
https://scholarship.claremont.edu/cmc_theses/3426
