path-goal theory

Question 1

Path-Goal Theory

Answer 1

Leaders can improve followers motivation by two principle ways
• Define the path, remove obstacles, make the path to goal clear (Intrinsic motivation)

• Increase payoff, salary (Extrinsic motivation)

Question 2

PATH-GOAL LEADERSHIP THEORY (HOUSE & MITCHELL, 1974)

Answer 2

1. Define goals
2. Clarifies path
3. Removes obstacles
4. Provides support

Question 3

LEADER BEHAVIORS

Answer 3

1. Directive Leadership (provides guidance and psychological structure)

• Set clear standards for performance
• Clarify how task can be fulfilled -> intrinsic motivation
• Make regulations clear to subordinates -> initiating structure
• Set timelines for task completions (time-bound nature)

2. Supportive Leadership (provides nurturance)
   - Encourage followers -> be friendly, approachable, diplomatic behavior - Make work environment pleasant
   - Treat followers as equal -> respect their status
   - Attend to well-being
3. Participative Leadership (provides involvement)
   - Ask subordinates about ideas (consulting) -> find sth. Out about commitment - Invite followers in decision making -> integrate their input
   - Share information
   - Make followers thrive in the task -> empowerment
4. Achievement-oriented Leadership (provides challenge)
   - Challenge followers to perform at best level
   - Establish a high standard of excellence -> best practice
   - Seek continuous improvement
   - High degree of confidence in ability of followers to accomplish goals

Question 4

3 FOLLOWER CHARACTERISTICS

Answer 4

1. Need for affiliation: need to belong to the group -> use Supportive Leadership
2. Preference for structure:
   certainty of work environment -> use Directive Leadership
3. Locus of control:
   a) Internal: I have control over my task -> use Participative Leadership
   b) External: Outside people influence circumstances -> use Directive Leadership

Question 5

3 TASK CHARACTERISTICS

Answer 5

1. Follower’s task:

   a) Boring/repetitive -> use Supportive Leadership

   b) Ambiguous -> use Participative or Achievement-oriented Leadership
2. Primary work group

3. Weak formal authority system: Making rules, regulations, make environment clear

Question 6

STRENGTHS & WEAKNESSES OF THE PATH GOAL THEORY

Answer 6

Pro

1. Framework to understand followers needs and performance
2. Practical view: shows when and how to remove obstacles to clarify the path

Contra

1. Interpretation can be confusing
2. Fails to adequatly explain influence of leadership behavior to motivation
3. Treats leadership as one-way event