WOMEN PRINCIPALS IN BETUL BLOCK: A STUDY OF LEADERSHIP BEHAVIOR

This research examines the leadership behaviors of female principals working in government schools within the Betul block of Madhya Pradesh. Utilizing a descriptive survey approach, the study selected nineteen schools—including those at the primary, middle, high, and higher secondary levels—through purposive sampling. To evaluate six aspects of leadership—Emotional Stabilizer, Team Builder, Performance Orientor, Potential Extractor, Socially Intelligent, and Value Inculcator—the Leader Behavior Scale (LBS) developed by Dr. Asha Hingar (2005) was employed. Data collection involved direct engagement with participants, and the results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, specifically percentages. The findings reveal that women principals at the secondary and senior secondary stages demonstrate stronger leadership effectiveness, particularly regarding emotional stability and instilling values. Conversely, those at primary and middle school levels showed moderate effectiveness, with noticeable differences across the various leadership dimensions. The study underscores the importance of implementing focused leadership development programs, especially for principals at the foundational stages of schooling.