The article is devoted to research on a role of psychological defense mechanisms which form motivation leadership. Individual repertoire of psychological defense mechanisms was considered in the context of intrapsychic adaptation of person. It is shown that motivation of leadership by psychological defense mechanisms may have adaptive or unbalance character. Effectiveness and ineffectiveness of leadership defined by specific set of dominant defense mechanisms of the individual.

Key words: leadership, motivation, formal leadership, informal leadership, student government, effective leader, motivation of leadership, psychological defense mechanisms.