The Glass Cliff Effect: A Systematic Review with Indian Focus

By : Shilpi Nanglu, Maitry Sharma

Page No: 31-38

Abstract
Despite the persistent gender disparities, the Glass Cliff phenomenon, by which women are appointed to precarious leadership roles during crises, has remained largely unexplored in India. This systematic review synthesises 36 peer-reviewed studies (2015–2025) using PRISMA 2020 guidelines to examine global patterns and Indian organisational contexts. The results indicate that stereotypes perpetuate women as empathetic crisis managers, leading to disproportionate placement in highrisk positions, a pattern intensified in India by patriarchal norms, caste hierarchies, and institutional scarcity. In corporate boards, educational institutions, and public sectors, symbolic inclusion without structural support results in increased scrutiny and burnout. This review points to signalling theory and role congruity as dominant frameworks, while cultural resistance and reluctant empowerment are emphasised in Indian studies. The review concludes that, in the absence of policy intervention to address biased selection processes, the Glass Cliff will continue to undermine leadership equity within India’s rapidly changing socio economic landscape.

Authors
Dr. Shilpi Nanglu : Designation Scientist ‘F’, Department Intelligence and Aptitude Group, Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR), DRDO.
Maitry Sharma :  M.A. Psychology, University of Delhi.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JPR.2026.21.01.4