PathGoal Theory of Leadership

Abstract : The paper reviews the path-goal theory of leadership. This theory states that a leader's behavior is important for good performance as a function of its impact on subordinates' perceptions of paths to goals and the attractiveness of the goals. When leader behavior clarifies these goals or makes them more attractive the satisfaction, performance, and the leader acceptance is expected to increase. The specific relationship between leader behavior and these criteria will depend upon the personality of the subordinate and the existing task environment. The paper discusses these complex relationships in some detail.