This idea of Robert House holds that a leader can affect the performance, satisfaction, andmotivation of a group by:
- Offering rewards for achieving performance goals,- Clarifying paths towards these goals,- Removing obstacles to performance.
However, whether leadership behavior can do so effectively also depends on situationalfactors.
Situational Factors of the Path-Goal TheorySubordinates' Personality- Locus of Control
. A participative leader is suitable for subordinates with internal locus of control; A directive leader is suitable for subordinates with external locus of control.
- Self-perceived ability
. Subordinates that believe they have a high ability themselves, donot like directive leadership.
Characteristics of the environment:
- When a group is working on a task that has a high structure, directive leadership isredundant and less effective.- When a highly formal authority system is in place, directive leadership can again reduceworkers' satisfaction.- When subordinates are in a team environment offering great social support, the supportiveleadership style becomes less necessary.According to House, there are four different types of leadership styles depending on thesituation.House and Mitchell (1974) describe four styles of leadership:
Supportive leadership
Considering the needs of the follower, showing concern for their welfare and creating afriendly working environment. This includes increasing the follower's self-esteem andmaking the job more interesting. This approach is best when the work is stressful, boringor hazardous.
Directive leadership
Telling followers what needs to be done and giving appropriate guidance along the way.This includes giving them schedules of specific work to be done at specific times. Rewardsmay also be increased as needed and role ambiguity decreased (by telling them what theyshould be doing).This may be used when the task is unstructured and complex and the follower isinexperienced. This increases the follower's sense of security and control and hence isappropriate to the situation.
Participative leadership
Consulting with followers and taking their ideas into account when making decisions andtaking particular actions. This approach is best when the followers are expert and theiradvice is both needed and they expect to be able to give it.
Achievement-oriented leadership
Setting challenging goals, both in work and in self-improvement (and often together).High standards are demonstrated and expected. The leader shows faith in the capabilitiesof the follower to succeed. This approach is best when the task is complex.
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