Characteristics and types of authority: The attitudes of young people. A case study

Abstract

This paper focuses on the socio-psychological dimension of authority as a cultural-integrative category. The results are presented of research into students' perceptions of desirable, positive characteristics of authority, providing an insight into what constitutes the qualities of certain types of authority. The dynamic interplay among social norms, beliefs and perceptions of real life influence the students' view of what authority is, as a role model, in Serbia today, still suffering the consequences of the disintegration of social norms. Six hundred and fifty-five students participated in the research project by filling in a questionnaire on the characteristics of authority. The results of factor analysis point to three relatively independent types of authority: charismatic, traditional and bureaucratic. The results are discussed in the context of changing authority rank in a transitional society like Serbia today, and the capability of particular types of authority to influence young people's attitudes and behaviour.