Question

Explain the Path-Goal Theory of Leadership with pragmatic example.

Answer 1

Path-Goal Theory was developed by Martin Evans and Robert House. The base behind Path-Goal theory is that effective leaders clarify the path to help their followers to move forward from their current position towards achieving the work goals. The process of theory claim that the leader reduces the roadblock that occurs in the path of the followers and makes their journey become easier. So the core of path goal theory is that, it is the leaders job to provide the followers with the information, support and other resources to achieve their goals.

This particular theory identifies four types of leadership behaviour, such as  directive leader, supportive leader, participative leader and achievement-oriented leader. This theory put forward the assumption is that the leader to be flexible person, who can display different kinds of behaviours based on a given situation. The four types of leadership behaviour, identified by Robert House are as follows:

1. Directive Leader: Directive leaders clarifies the followers roles, schedules the work to be done and gives the needed direction and guidance to accomplish tasks.

2. Supportive Leader: Supportive leader behaves in a friendly manner with the followers, and the main concern of the leader is placed on the needs of the followers, rather than on accomplishing the tasks.

3. Participative Leader: Participative leader involves the followers in the consultation process and also gets the suggestions or views from the followers, before making a decision.

4. Achievement-Oriented Leader: Achievement oriented leader set challenging goals for the followers and expects them to perform at their highest level.

The above mentioned leadership styles under the path-goal theory is contingent upon two factors such as, characteristics of employees and environmental factors. While environmental factors include aspects such as task structure, formal authority system, work group, etc. employee characteristics include aspects like locus of control, experience, perceived ability, etc.