Path-goal theory of leadership

Path-Goal Theory

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The success or failure of managers depends on their leadership qualities . They can be successful leaders by helping their subordinates to find solutions to their problems . Several attempts were made to explain and understand leadership with the formulation of various leadership theories . One such important theory is the Path-Goal theory which is a contingency model of leadership developed by Robert House . It borrows some important elements from Ohio State Studies and the

br expectancy theory of motivation (Heinz and Koontz , 1994 ,

. 492 According to the path-goal theory , the leader should provide required support and guidance to his followers and help them achieve organizational goals . He should also establish individual (or group goals for employees that are compatible with the broad organizational goals . Thus the leader defines the path to achieve goals

The behavior of the leader is acceptable to the subordinates as long as

The subordinates find that the satisfaction of their needs (such as promotion , rewards etc ) depends on their effective performance , and

They are provided with guidance , support and rewards that are needed for effective performance

While implementing the path-goal theory four types of leadership can be used in to affect subordinate 's perception about path and goals

Directive Leadership : The leader clearly tells his subordinates about what is expected from them , gives them work schedules and instruct them about `how ' to do the task

Supportive Leadership : The leader attempts to address the needs and problems of his subordinates

Participative Leadership : The leader discusses problems with his subordinates and seeks their suggestions before making any decision

Achievement-oriented Leadership : The leader attempts to develop his subordinates by giving them challenging tasks and higher responsibilities and encouraging them to perform at their best

Expectancy theory is the foundation of the path-goal concept of leadership . This theory indicates that employee motivation is dependent on those aspects of the leader 's behavior that influence the employee 's goal-directed performance and the relative attractiveness to the employee of the goals involved . The theory holds that an individual is motivated by his perception of the possibility of achieving a goal through effective job performance . However , the individual must be able to link his or her efforts to the effectiveness of his /her job performance , leading to the accomplishment of goals . Two general propositions have emerged from the path-goal theory of House and Mitchell (Boone and David , 1992 ,

. 408

The behavior of the leader is acceptable and satisfying to subordinates to the extent that the subordinates see such behavior as either an immediate source of satisfaction , or as instrumental to future satisfaction

The behavior of the leader will be motivational to the extent that (a such behavior makes the satisfaction of subordinates ' needs contingent on effective performance and (b ) such behavior complements the environment of the subordinates by providing the training , guidance support , and rewards or incentives necessary for effective performance

This is beyond any iota of...