The effects of participative decision making on the relationship between leadership style and organizational commitment

Abstract

This research focuses on participative decision making, Path-Goal leadership and organizational commitment. The main purpose of this research is to investigate the mediating effects of propensity for participative decision making (PPDM) on the relationship between leadership style and organizational commitment. A fifty three items questionnaire, including items for background information, Path-Goal leadership, propensity for participative decision making and organizational commitment, was distributed to 127 deputy and assistant registrars in UTM Skudai but ninety two questionnaires were returned. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis methods were used to analyze the collected data. Deputy and assistant registrars in UTM Skudai were found to have implemented directive and supportive leadership more frequently than other Path- Goal Leadership styles. Nonetheless, all leadership styles were implemented at a moderately high level. They were also having high PPDM and level of organizational commitment. Besides, the results also showed that there was a significant relationship between Path-Goal, directive, supportive, achievement-oriented leadership and organizational commitment. It is also found that PPDM mediates the relationship between Path-Goal leadership and affective commitment as well as the relationship between achievement-oriented leadership and affective commitment. Recommendations for future research and organization were presented.