Path-goal model

The path-goal model is a leadership theory developed by Robert House. It states that a leader's function is to clear the path toward the goal of the group, by meeting the needs of subordinates.

House defined four leadership styles:

• Directive leadership - offering guidance
• Supportive leadership - showing concern
• Participative leadership - asking for concensus
• Achievement oriented leadership - demanding results

In contrast to the Fiedler contingency model, the path-goal model states that the four leadership styles are fluid, and that leaders can adopt any of the four depending on what the situation demands.