Investigating overly parentified individuals and their potential impact on work environments

Utilizing theories of overly parentified individuals as an analytical lens, this dissertation critically examined a work style dysfunction characterized by excessive control over the people and processes of the workplace environment and its impact on effective operations of the organizational system. I investigated the proposition that by safe guarding their own sense of Self through excessive control of their environment, the adult parentified-as-child develops workplace habits that negatively impact organizations despite outward positive appearances.;Twelve participants comprised of 10 women and 2 men (6 White, 6 people of color) working as administrators and directors in educational settings were selected. Eight showed high potential for over-parentification based on childhood environments, adaptations, sense of self and role within a group, workplace behaviors, and their stated opinions of workplace environments.;This case study utilized an exploratory research methodology; that is, a critical analysis, reflection, synthesis, and application of findings drawn from multiple cases in an interview-based investigation determined by a five domain analysis.;A majority of the overly parentified adults appeared to be unable to share necessary information, maintain appropriate work/social boundaries, and accept certain ii work-related health issues. These particular over-controlling leaders or managers are acting on information gathered and received since their infancy. The impact on the workplace was apparent through triangulated interviews and observable behaviors of these individuals. Four of the "normally parentified" participants provided opinions and observations to support the theories of control and resistance used to protect and validate work roles.;This study was valuable in understanding patterns of beliefs and behaviors of individuals working long hours, maintaining a high self-standard, having predominantly positive intentions, and unusually committed though critical of the organization in which they work. Due to the high trust levels these people engender they are often allowed to work autonomously leading to crisis events when retirement, work overload, and unnecessary bottlenecks produce negative work balance and outputs.;Future research should include the impact of a working adult's childhood on their performance, underlying motivations, and behaviors. These studies allow organizations to access the great value of "work horses" while avoiding the "Trojan Horse" issues.