Assessing the role of leadership style in conflict resolution in public organizations: A study of selected prisons in Tanzania

Sarah Mbise; Revocatus Kabobe; Miraji  Kitigwa

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.2.4.58

Authors

Sarah Mbise The Open University of Tanzania Author
Revocatus Kabobe The Open University of Tanzania Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6011-9041
Miraji Kitigwa The Open University of Tanzania Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.2.4.58

Keywords:

Conflict Resolution, Leadership, Leadership Style, Public Organizations

Abstract

This study assessed the role of leadership styles in conflict resolution in selected Tanzanian prisons, precisely Ukonga, Keko, and Segerea, in Dar es Salaam. The study aimed to assess the leadership styles used in prisons, evaluate procedures applied to conflict resolution, and identify the challenges faced by prison leaders. The study was guided by the Transformational Leadership Theory, which was proposed by Bernard Bass and Riggio, and the Transactional Leadership Theory by Burns. Applying a qualitative research approach and case study design, the population of the study was 100 participants, consisting of 30 prison leaders and administrative staff and 70 inmates. The sample size was 15 prison leaders, 15 administrative staff, 20 inmates (served up to 4 years), 20 inmates (served 5-10 years), 15 inmates (served 11-15 years), and 15 inmates (served over 15 years) by using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data collected in the field by coding and creating themes. The findings discovered that Tanzanian prisons mainly applied transactional, transformational, and participative leadership styles. The transformational leadership style, characterized by empathy, open communication, and respect, proved to be most effective in attaining sustainable conflict resolution and constructive behavioral change amongst inmates. Besides, collaborative leadership allowed inmate participation in decision-making, which was rare but demonstrated considerable potential for fostering permanent peace and cooperation. The study identified challenges facing prison leaders, such as resource limitations, overcrowding in prisons, insufficient training, low morale, and rigid hierarchical structures obstructing effective conflict management. Recommendations emphasized the need for comprehensive leadership training encouraging emotional intelligence, as well as adaptive conflict resolution policies and structural reforms promoting inmate involvement and procedural justice. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical understandings into the practical application of leadership concepts and theories in conflict resolution circumstances within correctional organizations, contributing valuable direction for policymakers and prison administrators looking for enhancement of the institutional harmony and rehabilitative outcomes.

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