PSYCHOLOGICAL DETERMINANTS OF LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION: EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS AND DEVELOPMENTAL PROFILING OF CIVIL SERVANTS IN UKRAINE

This study investigates the psychological determinants of leadership potential among civil servants in Ukraine and evaluates the effectiveness of a tailored leadership development programme. Drawing from contemporary theories in organisational psychology and behavioural public administration, the research identifies thirteen key psychological and managerial variables critical to public sector leadership, including emotional intelligence, cognitive flexibility, stress resilience, and decision-making autonomy. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with an experimental group (n = 31) undergoing a multi-module training programme, and a control group (n = 32) not receiving the intervention. Pre- and post-assessment phases included standardised psychometric tools and statistical analyses (Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, t-tests, ANOVA), supported by qualitative data from reflective questionnaires, checklists, and focus group interviews. The findings demonstrate significant improvements in all measured competencies among the experimental group, with no comparable changes observed in the control group. Correlation analysis also revealed strengthened interrelations among leadership variables after the training, indicating the development of a more integrated leadership profile. Qualitative data further confirmed positive subjective experiences, including enhanced confidence, emotional regulation, and public engagement. This research contributes to the growing evidence that leadership competencies in the public sector can be developed through structured, psychologically grounded interventions. It offers a replicable model for leadership capacity-building within civil service systems undergoing transformation, particularly in post-crisis or reform-oriented contexts.