What theory describes the development of leader-member relationships over time?

The concept of leader-member exchange (LMX) theory is centered on the understanding that leader-member relationships evolve progressively over time through a series of interactions. This theory posits that leaders develop different levels of relationships with their subordinates based on mutual trust, respect, and obligation. Initially, leaders typically engage with all members in their group more generally, but as relationships develop, they may form closer, more individualized exchanges with certain members.

LMX highlights the importance of these relationships in influencing employees’ job satisfaction, commitment, and performance. It emphasizes that high-quality exchanges lead to better outcomes for both leaders and followers, fostering an environment of engagement and collaboration. The development of these exchanges is dynamic; they move from a more impersonal phase to a more dyadic relationship marked by increased communication and support over time.

In contrast, transformational leadership theory focuses on inspiring and motivating followers through a shared vision rather than on the relational aspect. Situational leadership theory emphasizes the need for leaders to adjust their styles based on the readiness of their followers, while transactional leadership theory is centered on the exchange of rewards for performance rather than on relationship development. Each of these theories addresses different facets of leadership but does not specifically describe the long-term evolution of leader-member relationships as effectively as L