Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-10-2024
Abstract
Female emergency medical services (EMS) providers face gender-based challenges and discrimination in the workplace, leading to higher rates of stress, depression, and anxiety. EMS leadership plays a critical role in shaping the experiences of all first responders, as well as the perpetuation or dismantling of discriminatory practices. Three leadership theories and their practical application for EMS leaders to dismantle gender inequality and promote fair and just treatment of women in the workplace are evaluated: transformational leadership, Path-Goal Theory, and servant leadership. The analysis involves examining professional and cultural factors contributing to gender inequality, utilizing leadership theories to address the issue, and evaluating situational factors influencing EMS leaders. Transformational leadership emphasizes leading by example and uniting individuals toward a common goal. Path-Goal Theory offers clear goal setting and identifies suitable paths to achieve gender equality. Servant Leadership prioritizes serving others and fostering trust to support the advancement of female EMS providers. Each leadership approach has strengths and weaknesses in addressing gender inequality. After evaluation, combining elements from Path-Goal Theory and Transformational Leadership may prove to be the most proactive and effective way to establish a culture of gender equality and demonstrate the necessity of this change and its benefits to society.
Recommended Citation
Gonzalez, Emily, "Leadership Evaluation Paper: Establishing A Culture of Gender Equality in EMS" (2024). All Faculty Scholarship for the College of Education and Professional Studies. 434.
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/cepsfac/434
Rights
Educational use only, the creator retains copyright and information is provided here for educational use only.