Stoic Leadership Orientation: Conceptual Foundations for a Future Scale

Abstract

This paper introduces the Stoic Leadership Orientation Scale (SLOS). The scale captures dispositional tendencies that map the classical Stoic virtues onto leadership in digital work environments. The conceptual foundation links Stoic virtue ethics with contemporary psychological constructs - cognitive reappraisal, acceptance, value-based behaviour. Study 1 develops the initial item pool and examines the factor structure through exploratory factor analysis. Study 2 tests the model with confirmatory factor analysis and assesses reliability and validity. The results support a four-factor solution reflecting Wisdom, Fairness, Courage, and disciplined emotional regulation. SLOS offers a theoretically grounded instrument for research on leadership, decision quality, and digital work conditions.