Women’s Perceptions of Leadership Effectiveness During Perimenopause and Menopause

Authors

• Shannon Clarkson Rains, Lubbock Christian UniversityFollow

Abstract

Perimenopause and menopause occur during the middle and later years of women’s professional lives, yet little research has examined how women in Christian leadership perceive their effectiveness during this transition. This mixed-methods study explored the experiences of 52 women serving in churches, Christian higher education, and nonprofits within the Churches of Christ. Participants completed an anonymous online survey addressing menopausal stage, symptoms, workplace experiences, and perceived leadership effectiveness, with optional open-ended questions inviting personal reflection.

Participants reported an average of thirteen symptoms. Although 60% perceived no change in their leadership effectiveness, 35% believed they had become less effective. Emotional symptoms were frequently identified as more disruptive than physical symptoms. Qualitative responses revealed women had limited knowledge to prepare them for the menopausal transition. They were reluctant to disclose struggles to supervisors, leaving them with little support at work.  Rather than reduced expectations, many women desired education, patience, flexibility, and supportive relationships, with the goal of continuing to serve faithfully. The findings suggest that Christian organizations can support women through informed supervision, organizational flexibility, and relational practices marked by hospitality and grace. Such support recognizes leadership as embodied and affirms the continuing gifts and callings of women throughout the menopausal transition.

Author Bio

Shannon Clarkson Rains is Associate Professor of Children's Ministry and Chair of Academic Affairs in the Smith College of Biblical Studies at Lubbock Christian University. Before entering higher education, she served in congregational children and family ministry for more than a decade. She earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Abilene Christian University with a focus on spiritual formation. Her research interests include women's leadership in Christian ministry, intergenerational ministry, and children's spiritual formation.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Rains, Shannon Clarkson (2026) "Women’s Perceptions of Leadership Effectiveness During Perimenopause and Menopause," Discernment: Theology and the Practice of Ministry: Vol. 12: Iss. 2, Article 1.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.acu.edu/discernment/vol12/iss2/1