PERCEPTIONS OF FEMALE LEADERS IN HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATION: ANALYSIS OF PROFILE, COMPETENCIES, CHALLENGES, PERSPECTIVES AND LEADERSHIP STYLES IN A PRIVATE HOSPITAL IN CURITIBA, PARANÁ.

The aim of this study was to analyze the profile, competencies, leadership styles, challenges and perspectives of female leaders in the administrative sector of a hospital in Curitiba, Paran.A descriptive study was carried out, with qualitative and quantitative analysisusing a questionnaire with 12 women in leadership positions, with a total of 24 questions.The literature review highlights women in leadership in the hospital sector and Eagly and Linda's (2007) labyrinth theory, which addresses the difficulties faced by women when seeking leadership positions, coming up against various challenges, but which can be overcome.The results showed that women leaders face various difficulties, but they believe that training and self-worth are the way to overcome these barriers.When asked about the barriers they face and their career prospects in the hospital over the next few years.The respondents highlighted the constant need to prove their competence in order to be recognized, the prejudice that still exists about women occupying executive positions and the difficulty of reconciling professional and personal life.