Abstract

This project explored leadership degradation among mid-to-senior enlisted members (E5–E9) of the United States Air Force using the concept of leadership entropy, the gradual decline of psychological and relational capacity in the absence of sustained support. The topic was selected to address a gap in understanding how internal leadership resilience erodes despite continued performance. A convergent mixed methods design was used, integrating quantitative survey constructs such as burnout, psychological capital, and perceived organizational support with open-ended narrative responses. Twenty-four participants contributed data. Results showed that while leaders remain outwardly effective, internal motivation and connection often deteriorate over time, especially at senior ranks. Emotional fatigue, identity misalignment, and institutional detachment emerged as dominant themes. In contrast, mentorship and feedback quality remained critical protective factors, particularly at mid-tier levels. The study concludes that leadership development must move beyond performance metrics to include systems that support renewal, psychological safety, and long-term sustainability.

Date Created

13 July 2025

Project Type

Capstone

College or School

College of Professional Studies Granite Division

Program or Major

Leadership

Subject

Leadership Entropy

Date

Summer 6-13-2025

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