[New Publication] Dr. Shashan Bao Explores Leader Loneliness and Organizational Power Distance
Dr. Shashan Bao from Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration, in collaboration with Phillip M. Jolly, has published a new study in Group & Organization Management exploring an often-overlooked issue in leadership—loneliness.
Titled “The Lonely Leader: How Organizational Power Distance and Need to Belong Shape Leader Loneliness,” the research reveals that leaders can experience significant loneliness due to organizational structures. The study finds that higher organizational power distance reduces social closeness between leaders and their teams, which in turn increases feelings of isolation. Importantly, the research also highlights that leaders’ individual need to belong shapes how strongly they experience loneliness, offering new insight into both organizational culture and leader well-being. These findings underscore the importance of fostering open communication and meaningful connections across hierarchical levels to support effective and healthy leadership.
- Date: March 23, 2026