Contingency theory and situational theory are two approaches to understanding how different variables interact and influence organizational behavior. Both theories recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to organizational problems, and that the most effective course of action will depend on the specific context and circumstances of the situation. However, there are some key differences between these two theories that are worth exploring.
Contingency theory is a framework for understanding the relationship between different variables that may influence organizational behavior. It suggests that the most appropriate course of action will depend on the specific circumstances of the situation. For example, if an organization is facing a problem with low employee morale, the most effective solution might be different depending on whether the problem is due to poor management or economic factors such as a recession.
Situational theory, on the other hand, emphasizes the role of the leader in determining the best course of action for an organization. According to this theory, the leader's style, personality, and values will influence how they approach problems and make decisions. The leader's style may be more directive, meaning they provide clear direction and expect their subordinates to follow orders, or it may be more participative, meaning they involve their subordinates in decision-making and allow for more flexibility in how tasks are accomplished.
Both contingency theory and situational theory recognize that there are many variables that can influence organizational behavior, and that the most effective course of action will depend on the specific context and circumstances of the situation. However, contingency theory focuses more on understanding the relationships between different variables, while situational theory focuses more on the role of the leader in determining the best course of action.
One of the key benefits of contingency theory is that it provides a framework for understanding the complex interactions between different variables that may influence organizational behavior. This can help organizations identify the root cause of problems and develop effective solutions that are tailored to the specific circumstances of the situation. Situational theory, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of leadership in determining the best course of action for an organization. This can be especially useful for organizations looking to improve their leadership practices and develop more effective leaders.
In conclusion, contingency theory and situational theory are two approaches to understanding organizational behavior that recognize the importance of context and circumstances in determining the most effective course of action. While they have some differences, both theories can be useful for organizations looking to improve their performance and effectiveness.
Contingency theories and Situational leadership theory
In the contingency model, leaders must evaluate their relationships with the team members, their authority levels and the clarity and structure of their tasks. In that sense leadership becomes a state of consciousness, rather than a personality trait or set of skills Adams, 1984. Middle LPC leaders are able to switch between being relationship and task oriented based off the needs of followers. The Social Status Period was based on the idea that, as group members undertake specific tasks, they reinforce the expectation that each individual will continue to act in a manner congruent with his or her previous behaviour. That era is divided into the Great Man Period and the Trait Period. It depends on two factors.
Contingency Theory And Transformational Leadership Theory
Within this context, several researches have examined the theme of leadership focusing on the reason behind the choice of following a leader. According to Hoffman et al. For instance, groups with low maturity and experience levels require leaders who direct the job tasks, while teams with more experience need leaders who delegate authority. Moreover, the contingency theory uses to highlight the multivariate nature of an organization. High LPC leaders are motivated by relationships, forming positive relationships with followers before focusing on the task ahead. Update Table of Contents What is Contingency or Situational Approach to Management Theory? While the Transformational Era has only recently come into existence and has not yet endured the rigours of extensive scrutiny and empirical testing, it looks very promising because it draws together many aspects of the previous eras and blends them. Leadership rests not only on the shoulders of one invidivual but also on all who share the mission and vision.
Contingency Theory of Leadership Explained
There also, for thefirsttime, the leadership focus changed from one of increasing the quantity of work accomplished productivity, efficiency to one of increasing quality through expectations, values. In turn, a manager focuses more on the relationships between team members and the working atmosphere rather than activity direction. This article also says that the performance of the organization and the success of the organization cannot be separated. It also describes four different behaviors used in leadership: telling, selling, participating, and delegating. Situational leadership theory: A test from three perspectives. Both models state that leaders must adapt their leadership approaches, depending on the capabilities of their team members. However Evolution of Leadership Theory 35 JOCM 3,3 36 at that stage of evolutionary development the influence process has been elevated to acknowledge the reciprocal influence of the subordinate and the leader, and the development of their relative roles over time.
How a Contingency Model and a Situational Model Are Similar
The theories of leadership in that period have survived well among subsequent leadership eras, and still have a strong place in current leadership theory. Originally, Fiedler developed the Contingency Leadership theory after many research studies on different personalities, mainly military. Those leaders serve to increase participation of less able members, they accept diverse personalities, and are very tolerant of deviants Bass, 1981. This means that if the current leader does not possess these skills, than a new one must emerge. The class then began an ongoing exploration of various leadership theories. Situation leadership is very effective when a leader is aware of what the task Coast Guard Academy: The Trait Theory Of Leadership 1916 Words 8 Pages The Behavioral Approach Theory of Leadership revolves around determining what leaders do and how they should act based on situations that appear Northouse, 2016. However, there won't be good results if the S4 with M1: It wouldn't be appropriate to delegate work and give responsibilities to someone who lacks the knowledge and is unwilling to do it.
Contingency and Situational Theory in Leadership
Organic structures are more common and suitable in dynamic environments. The LPC is a questionnaire to the leader, which aims to determine the type of co-worker a leader would like to deal with. Leadership: Theory and Practice Sixth Edition. Consequently, organizations should select leaders upon analysis of their situations to determine the leadership styles required to fit specific situations. Which study is also called as situational approach? Finally, the Transformational Era saw leadership as occurring at all levels of the organisation, affected by the persons involved, their situations, and their influences on each other.