a. Based on the Path-Goal Theory and the (1) directive, (2) supportive, (3) participative and (4) achievement-oriented leadership styles, what style best describes Coach Pat Summit?
Patricia, head ‘Pat’ Summit is one of the most celebrated basket ball coaches basing the main argument on the fact that she is one of the best coaches in the team as well as one of the most successful and she is also a lady. Her success can be attributed largely to her leadership style. She believes in treating these women players as her daughters. She also ensures that each of her players achieve the best results possible. She is achievement oriented as well as supportive in a number of ways. Based on her achievements in all the tournaments, Pat’s leadership style is definitely achievement oriented. Another factor that illustrates these results is the her style of confronting flaws, which she’s named ‘tough love’.
b. Share your Path-Goal Theory Questionnaire score and define your leadership style in terms of the Path-Goal Theory.
My scores were average for directive, supportive and participative. However, I scored highly, (26) for achievement oriented leadership style. The questionnaire has proven that my style of leadership is achievement-oriented. I expect too much from the subordinates and I can always trained them every day to ensure that they become overly competent since it is only then that they can achieve success. Leadership that is achievement oriented leads to the achievement of goals but the subordinate will have to sacrifice their time to achieve greatly.
c. Explain how effectively Coach Pat Summit’s leadership style identified in 4a above would motivate you if you were a member of her basketball team.
Pat’s way of leadership would be very effective in motivating just about anyone. For me, it would motivate me since I do not fear the boss. Being afraid of the boss is one of the easiest ways to that one loses competence. The second motivating factor in her way of leadership is through the continued motivation that she offers her players. With a little push and demonstration, I have found out that I can achieve a lot.
6. Then respond to at least two (2) other students' answers by clicking the "Reply" link (15 points each for a total of 30 points) [100-200 words]. I will provide 2 post so you can comment on it.
Hello Mr. Coolidge. I support your argument that pat summit is in fact an achievement oriented leader but I openly oppose the illustration that you have used to illustrate that she pushes her son to practice harder. In some way, the pushing is a trait of directive leadership. If she had trained him, I believe that then, your illustration would have been just great. I also agree to the fact that she is supportive since she was quoted stating that her approach involves treating all her players as her daughters. This is a friendly approach.
Hi. Bridget Strub. I oppose the fact that you think that Pat is a bit difficult. She has been supportive all through and just like other coaches she has also been yelling at her players. This however does not make her difficult. However, everyone is entitled to their opinion and I respect your opinion but as far as I am concerned, none of her players protest. She does encourage them to participate but in a series of events, and this is just one of her ways to achieve greatly and increase the competence of all her players (achievement-oriented). This trait places her as an achievement oriented leader but not a participative one. If she seeks advice from her players, then she is a participative leader. Nevertheless, your point of view is diversified in that you have managed to outline all leadership styles is Pat’s leadership. This is very thorough.
References
Baldon, J. (2005). Great Motivation Secrets of Great Leaders. New York: McGraw-Hill Books.
Northhouse, P. (2009). Leadership: Theory and Practice. London: SAGE.
