How does a leader influence the behaviour of followers towards goal achievement? Explain with reference to the path-goal theory of leadership.
Path-Goal theory is another very popular contingency model developed by Robert J. House, Path goal theory finds its inspiration in both the Ohio state leadership and expectancy theory of motivation. Path-Goal theory tries to explain the effectiveness of leadership as a function of the situation. The key aspects of path-goal theory of leadership are summarized through the following points.
Path-Goal Theory of Leadership
One of the key contingency theories of leadership is path-goal theory of leadership. According to path-goal theory of leadership, the primary job of leader is to provide path for their followers. In this reference, leader has to provide followers with the information, support or other necessary resources essential in achievement of goals.
- The leader can improve subordinate's motivation by making the rewards for performance more By giving raises, promotions and recognition, the Leader can increase the subordinates' valence (i.e. preference) for goal achievement.
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- If the worker's assignments are poorly defined the leader can increase motivation by providing structure in the form of helpful supervision, subordinate training and goal clarification. Reducing the ambiguity of the job makes it easier for the subordinate to pursue the goals.
Expectancy (i.e. likelihood of attaining the first level outcome) should increase.
If we analyze the above two steps together, we can see that in the first step valence is increased and in the second expectancy is increased. Now, as per the, expectancy theory of motivation,
Motivational Force= Valence x Expectancy.
It is thus obvious that path goal theory is designed to increase worker motivation.
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- If the work of the subordinates is already greatly structured, as in the case of assembly line worker or mechanist, the leader should refrain from introducing any more structure. Such action will be viewed as unnecessary and overly directive. Instead of worrying about the work, the leader should be concerned with the personal needs of the people by giving them attention,
.praise and support. '
In this regard, path-goal theory provides three important benefits:
- It helps integrate expectancy theory and contingency leadership
- It reemphasizes the importance of high leader concern for both the work and the people:
- It encourages the leader to' analyze the situation in determining the right degree of each concern for structure and concern for people - that will be required.
