Emerald Article : a test of the path-goal leadership theory in Taiwan A test of the path-goal leadership theory in Taiwan

Abstract

The path-goal theory of leadership states that the leader helps subordinates to achieve their goals by providing a clear pathe for them to follow. This research project used dta collected in Taiwan to test the applicability of this theory in a non-western culture. The three groups of subjects studied (peers, managers and subordinates), perceived the level of task structure to be equivalent. Three aspects of leadership were measured: instrumental, supportive and participate leadership. Leaders reported that they used each style of leadership at a statiscal significantly higher level than their peers believed. Two dimensions of motivations were also considered: efforts that lead to perfomance and efforts that lead to rewards. Overall, the results provide some support for the path-goal theory of leadership. The theory was supported for the relationship between managers and subordinates but not supported for relationship betweem manager and peers.