What are the four leadership styles in Path-Goal Theory?

• A. Directive, Supportive, Participative, Achievement-oriented
• B. Autocratic, Laissez-faire, Democratic, Transformational
• C. Directive, Coaching, Delegating, Monitoring
• D. Ethical, Moral, Legal, Social

Answer: (A)

Path-Goal Theory centers on how a leader’s behavior helps followers move toward their goals by clarifying the path and removing obstacles, thereby boosting motivation and effort. The four styles used in this approach are directive, supportive, participative, and achievement-oriented. Directive leadership provides clear guidance, instructions, and expectations—useful when tasks are unclear or complex. Supportive leadership focuses on the well-being and morale of followers, creating a friendly and supportive environment, which helps when tasks are repetitive or stressful. Participative leadership involves followers in decision making, which enhances buy-in and leverages their insights when input from the team can improve outcomes. Achievement-oriented leadership sets challenging goals and high expectations, signaling confidence in followers’ abilities and pushing performance higher when tasks and abilities align.

Other option sets mix in styles from different theories or broad leadership concepts not specific to Path-Goal, such as autocratic, laissez-faire, or democratic styles, or transformational and coaching-oriented terms, which aren’t the four styles identified in Path-Goal Theory.