Brito, Max Leandro de AraújoDuavy, Paulo Roberto PimentelAdelino, Naiana CordeiroSantos, Valquiria Aparecida dosPessoa, Lidiane Patricia de Oliveira2026-01-132026-01-132025-05-28BRITO, Max Leandro de Araújo; DUAVY, Paulo Roberto Pimentel; ADELINO, Naiana Cordeiro; SANTOS, Valquiria Aparecida dos; PESSOA, Lidiane Patricia de Oliveira. Teoria crítica como paradigma de pesquisa na formação de gestores. Revista de Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão em Gestão, [S. l.], v. 8, n. 1, p. e38343, 2025. DOI: 10.21680/2675-8512.2025v8n1ID38343. Disponível em: https://periodicos.ufrn.br/revenspesextgestao/article/view/38343. Acesso em: 13 jan. 2026.2675-8512https://repositorio.ufrn.br/handle/123456789/67647This theoretical-conceptual article aims to present Critical Theory as a paradigm for research in management education, encouraging reflection in learning processes. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative approach, based on a literature review of Critical Theory, organizational studies, and management education. The research findings highlight the importance of denaturalizing organizational practices and structures; understanding power relations and existing inequalities; and the capacity to act in a transformative way. Finally, the study concludes that Critical Theory presents itself as a necessary paradigm for rethinking research in management education, particularly due to its commitment to emancipation and autonomy. The article paves the way for future research that deepens the application of Critical Theory in management educationpt-BRAttribution 3.0 Brazilhttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/br/Teoria CríticaEstudos organizacionaisCrítica socialTransformação socialFormação de gestoresCritical TheoryManagement developmentOrganizational studiesSocial criticismSocial transformationarticle