Moving beyond Mentoring: A Collective Case Study Examining the Perceived Characteristics of Positive Transformational Figures

Abstract

The purpose of this collective-case study was to explore the characteristics of transformational figures. This study revealed that interpersonal encounters were seen as a catalyst that assisted study participants through the process of transformation. Ten themes emerged from the cross-case analysis: Imposed and Intentional Influence; Metaphors of Revolutionary Change; Characteristics of Kindness, Caring, and Compassion; Admiration for Transformational Figures; Time and Timing of Transformational Experience; Feeling Special; Positive Emotional Response; Debt to Repay; Reflective Thinking; and Interpersonal Connections.