Leader Member Exchange Theory

The Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) theory examines the relationship between leaders and subordinates, highlighting two types: high-quality relationships characterized by mutual trust and respect, and low-quality relationships relying on traditional reward and punishment. The theory explains how individuals move between in-group and out-group status, affecting motivation and performance. High-quality relationships are crucial in people-oriented structures, while reward-based systems are more effective in performance-oriented cultures. Challenges include scalability and favoritism, which can lead to resentment and impact performance. The core of LMX theory is the leader-subordinate relationship's role in effective leadership and motivation.

How does the closeness of the leader-member relationship affect performance and motivation?

What challenges does scalability present in maintaining leader-member relationships?