Women are less likely to take risks

The leadership style of women is more effective in the current economic conditions facing the UK, according to a study.

Research by occupational psychologists Geoff Trickey and So Yi Yeung showed different styles between the male and female personality, suggesting that risk-taking is influenced by gender.

Women are more than twice as likely to be wary or prudent, while men are twice as likely be to adventurous and carefree, the study of 2,000 workers in more than 20 occupations, from firefighting to accountancy, showed.

The researchers said the findings suggested that risk-taking must be a “distinctive feature” of gender, adding that it offered a likely explanation for the differences in female and male leadership styles.

They added that the study suggested the typical leadership style of women is more effective in the present economic climate.

Mr Trickey, of Psychological Consultancy, said: “The implication of our gender difference findings is that male/female risk type differences are genetic, having achieved a balance shaped by evolution which would have been critical to survival.

“Risk taking is necessary and desirable, but we need to reinstate the balance that ensured the survival of our ancestors.”