Path-Goal and Situational Theories of Leadership

Path-Goal and Situational Theories of Leadership

There is no guarantee for success for any person in a leadership role. It is not uncommon for a leader who has met success in one leadership role and environment to encounter an experience where his or her leadership is now ineffective. As a result of various factors within situations, success may not be tied to the style of the leader. Various factors might include the situational context in which leadership is applied or the level of member motivation. For example, in Situational Theory, a leader may be effective because his or her style of leadership fits the situation. A leader may also be effective because of his or her ability to motivate subordinates. As outlined in Path-Goal Theory, a leader removes obstacles and provides support to subordinates to achieve goals.

For this paper, review the Learning Resources to consider the strengths and limitations of using the Path-Goal Theory of leadership in public health situations. Path-Goal Theory is a widely-debated issue in terms of its validity in leadership practices. As a result, for this paper, you must determine if you think Path-Goal is a valid theory of leadership. Then, think about how Path-Goal Theory compares (similarities and differences) to Situational Approach and consider an example of this comparison.

WRITE a brief description of two strengths and two limitations of Path-Goal Theory as applied in the field of public health. Then, compare (similarities and differences) Path-Goal Theory to Situational Theory of leadership. Be specific. Finally, explain whether Path-Goal Theory is a valid theory of leadership. Justify your response.

  • Expand with additional insight and resources.
  • Offer polite disagreement or critique, supported with evidence.
  • Offer and support an opinion.
  • Validate an idea with your own experience.
  • Make a suggestion or comment that guides or facilitates the discussion.

Support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources and the current literature

Below are the Learning Resources;

  • Nahavandi, A. (2014). The art and science of leadership (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
    • Chapter 3, “The Foundations of Modern Leadership”
  • House, R.J. (1971). A path goal theory of leader effectiveness. Administrative Science Quarterly, 16(3), 321–339. (This is a seminal article in the field that will serve as a foundation for additional resources.)
    Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
  • Luna, B.A. (2009). An analysis of the nuances and practical applications of situational leadership in the management and administration of international health care organizations. International Journal of e-Business Management, 3(5), 18.
    Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.
  • Sarin, S., & O’Connor, G.C. (2009). First among equals: The effect of team leader characteristics on the internal dynamics of cross-functional product development teams. Journal of Product Innovation Management, 26(2), 188–205.
    Retrieved from the Walden Library databases.

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This theory also has some weaknesses when applied in the health sector. One of the aspect that makes it inefficient is its complexity and being very spontaneous. This makes it difficult to apply in the health sector as workers need first to get used of the style of leadership…

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Path-Goal and Situational Theories of Leadership

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