Leader Orientation and T-Group Effectiveness

Abstract

By extending Fiedler's conception of leader orientation, it was hypothesized that groups led by trainers oriented toward the group members most liked by their group are more effective-in terms of member satisfaction and achievement of group goals-than groups led by trainers oriented toward least-liked members of their group. This hypothesis was tested by comparing three T Groups whose leaders were oriented toward the "sociometric stars" in their group with three T Groups whose leaders were oriented toward the sociometric isolates. The hypothesis was supported by measures of member satisfaction with the group, achievement of group goals, and perceived group effectiveness in changing members' attitudes and behaviors. The mechanisms presumed to mediate between the leader's orientation and group effectiveness are discussed.