Relationships between Attitudes and Leadership Style: A Policy Capturing Approach,
Abstract
The present study sought to extend understanding of the relational qualities of leadership style using policy capturing. The approach required analysis of the styles of leadership used by battalion commanders in dealing with problem soldiers. A questionnaire was administered to battalion commanders to gather information about what types of personal problems they have found as leaders and what solution techniques were employed to deal with the problems. Leaders' attitudes toward soldiers were also obtained as a basis for differentiating between developmental, punitive leaders, and administrative leaders. Subjects were 326 male battalion commanders assigned to locations throughout the continental US, Europe, and the Far East. Responses regarding soldier problems were submitted to a principle component, varimax rotation factor analysis. The four generic factors identified were (1) on the job problems, (2) substance abuse programs (3) socio-emotional problems, and (4) AWOL. The three leadership styles differed most in their handling of job performance problems, less regarding socio-emotional problems, and less yet on substance abuse problems. There were no discernable differences regarding AWOL.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADP001284
Entities
People
- Jerome Adams
- John Richards
- Terrence Fullerton
Organizations
- United States Military Academy