The opinions of female academics about the principals in the context of the queen bee syndrome

The aim of this study is to examine the perceptions of female academics towards the concept of leadership, particularly in the context of the Queen Bee Syndrome. The study addresses the dynamics of female academics' appointment processes to leadership roles, perceived challenges, and attitudes towards gender-based leadership norms. Data were collected using a qualitative research method, focusing on 25 female academics in Erzincan province. The findings reveal various perspectives of the participants on the concept of leadership; they explore perceptions of leadership opportunities and challenges, attitudes towards gender-based leadership norms, and barriers encountered in leadership roles. In the context of the Queen Bee Syndrome, how female academics' perceptions of leadership positions are shaped has been identified as a significant focal point. Consequently, it has been observed that the leadership experiences of female academics provide important opportunities for gender equality at the institutional level.