The path -- goal theory, also known as the path -- goal theory of leader effectiveness or the path -- goal model, is a leadership theory developed by Robert House, an Ohio State University graduate, in 1971 and revised in 1996. The theory states that a leader 's behavior is contingent to the satisfaction, motivation and performance of his or her subordinates. The revised version also argues that the leader engages in behaviors that complement subordinate 's abilities and compensate for deficiencies. According to Robert House and John Antonakis, the task - oriented elements of the path -- goal model can be classified as a form of instrumental leadership.
what is the main principle of path-goal theory
a leader 's behavior is contingent to the satisfaction, motivation and performance of his or her subordinates