Path Goal Theory

Presented by:
Ali Noman Ashraf
M.B.A-4th
Path-Goal Theory (House, 1971) Description
Definition

Path-goal theory centers on how leaders

motivate subordinates to accomplish
designated goals

Emphasizes the relationship between

the leaders style
the characteristics of the subordinates
the work setting
Path-Goal Theory (House, 1971) Description
Perspective

 Motivational Principles (based on Expectancy

Theory) - Subordinates will be motivated if they
believe:
 they are capable of performing their work
 that their efforts will result in a certain outcome
 that the payoffs for doing their work are worthwhile
Challenge to Leader
 Use a Leadership Style that best meets
subordinates motivational needs
 choose behaviors that complement what is missing in the
work setting
 enhance goal attainment by providing information or
rewards
 provide subordinates with the elements they need to
reach their goals
Basic Idea
Path-Goal Theory
Major Components of Path-Goal Theory
Path-Goal Theory Suggests:
Each type of leader behavior has a
different kind of impact on
subordinates motivation
Whether or not a particular leader
behavior is motivating is contingent on
– subordinate characteristics
– task characteristics
Leader Behaviors
Directive Leadership
 Leader who gives subordinates task instruction
including:
 What is expected of them
 How task is to be done
 Timeline for task completion
For role ambiguity
 Some suggest increasing incentives and
strengthening reward contingencies as two
mechanisms of directive leadership for the valence
and instrumentality components.
Leader Behaviors
Supportive Leadership
 Refers to being friendly, approachable, and supportive
as a leader and includes:
 Attending to well-being & human needs of
subordinates’;
 Using supportive behavior (cognitive and affective) to
make work environment pleasant and more tolerant;
 Increase self-confidence and lower anxiety.
Leader Behaviors
Participative Leadership
 Leader who invites subordinates to share in the
decision-making
 A participative leader:
 Consults with subordinates
 Seeks their ideas & opinions
 Integrates their input into group/organizational
decisions
Leader Behaviors
Achievement Oriented Leadership
 Leader who challenges subordinates to perform work at
the highest level possible
 An achievement oriented leader:
 Establishes a high standard of excellence for subordinates;
 Seeks continuous improvement;
 Demonstrates a high degree of confidence in subordinates’
ability to establish & achieve challenging goals.
Questions & Feedback