Question 1

Which of the following is not one of the hypotheses that have evolved from the path-goal theory?

Accepted Answer

Subordinates with an external locus of control are generally more satisfied with a directive style, not less, as they prefer clear guidance and structure.

Question 2

Path-goal theory identifies two classes of contingency variables that moderate the leadership-behavior outcome as ________.

Accepted Answer

Path-goal theory suggests that the effectiveness of leadership behavior is contingent upon the environment and the personal characteristics of followers.

Question 3

Who developed path-goal theory?

Accepted Answer

Path-goal theory was developed by Robert House.

Question 4

According to path-goal theory, a manager who consults with subordinates and uses their suggestions exhibits what type of leadership behavior?

Accepted Answer

Participative leadership behavior involves consulting with subordinates and considering their suggestions in decision-making.

Question 5

Which of the following is included in the class of contingency variables termed "environmental factors"?

Accepted Answer

Environmental factors in contingency theory often include elements like task structure and formal authority systems, which are external to the individual and relate to the organizational environment.

Question 6

Fiedler's dimension termed '________' is the degree of confidence, trust, and respect subordinates had for their leader.

Accepted Answer

Leader-member relations is the degree of confidence, trust, and respect subordinates had for their leader.

Question 7

According to the path-goal theory, directive leadership will lead to higher employee satisfaction when there is ________ within a work group.

Accepted Answer

Directive leadership is more effective and leads to higher employee satisfaction when there is substantial conflict within a work group, as it provides clear guidance and reduces ambiguity.

Question 8

According to path-goal theory, a leader who lets subordinates know what's expected of them, schedules work to be done, and gives specific guidance as to how to accomplish tasks is termed ________.

Accepted Answer

According to path-goal theory, a directive leader provides clear instructions, expectations, and guidance on how tasks should be accomplished.

Question 9

The ________ theory is a contingency theory that focuses on followers' readiness.

Accepted Answer

The situational leadership theory is a contingency theory that emphasizes the readiness level of followers, suggesting that leaders should adjust their style based on the followers' ability and willingness to perform tasks.

Question 10

According to path-goal theory, a leader who is friendly and shows concern for the needs of subordinates is termed ________.

Accepted Answer

Supportive leadership in path-goal theory involves being friendly and showing concern for the needs of subordinates.

Question 11

Fiedler assumed a person's leadership style was ________.

Accepted Answer

Fiedler assumed that a person's leadership style was fixed, meaning that it was not influenced by the situation.

Question 12

The main role of the leader is to facilitate and communicate in which of the following leadership styles?

Accepted Answer

In the participating leadership style, the leader's main role is to facilitate and communicate, involving team members in decision-making and encouraging collaboration.

Question 13

________ is derived from the belief that effective leaders clarify the path to help their followers get from where they are to the achievement of their work goals and make the journey along the path easier by reducing roadblocks and pitfalls.

Accepted Answer

Path Goal Theory is based on the idea that leaders can enhance follower performance and satisfaction by clarifying the path to goals and removing obstacles.

Question 14

According to Hersey and Blanchard, a high task-low relationship situation calls for the ________ leadership style.

Accepted Answer

In a high task-low relationship situation, the leader needs to provide clear directives and closely supervise their subordinates. This corresponds to the telling style of leadership as identified by Hersey and Blanchard, where the leader provides specific instructions and closely monitors progress. The other styles are more appropriate in situations where the subordinate has higher levels of competence or commitment.

Question 15

Which of the following leadership styles describes a leader who provides little direction or support?

Accepted Answer

The delegating leadership style involves providing little direction or support, allowing team members to take responsibility for their tasks.

Question 16

Which of the following is included in the class of contingency variables termed "personal characteristics of the follower"?

Accepted Answer

Locus of control is a personal characteristic that refers to an individual's belief about the extent to which they can control events affecting them.

Question 17

The degree to which the job assignments are formalized and procedurized is the ________ contingency dimension according to Fiedler.

Accepted Answer

Task structure refers to the extent to which job assignments are formalized and procedurized, making it a key contingency dimension in Fiedler's model.

Question 18

A leader who sets challenging goals and expects very high performance levels from subordinates is classified as what type of leader, according to path-goal theory?

Accepted Answer

According to path-goal theory, an achievement-oriented leader sets challenging goals and expects high performance levels from subordinates.

Question 19

Which of the following leadership styles describes a leader who provides both directive and supportive behavior?

Accepted Answer

The selling leadership style involves both directive and supportive behavior, guiding team members through tasks while also being encouraging and motivating.

Question 20

Reviews of the major studies undertaken to test the overall validity of Fiedler's model have shown ________.

Accepted Answer

Fiedler's Contingency Model has been supported by considerable evidence, indicating that the effectiveness of a leader is contingent upon the match between the leader's style and the situation.

Quiz 16: Managers As Leaders