Final answer:
A Middle-of-the-road manager according to the Blake Mouton theory balances both task and relationship, striving for adequate performance by avoiding extremes in orientation towards tasks and interpersonal relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the Blake Mouton managerial grid theory, a Middle-of-the-road manager is defined as someone who maintains a balance, aiming for a midpoint on both task and relationship orientations. This implies they do not have an extreme approach but try to compromise between the needs of the tasks and the relationships within the team.
Work overload, conflict, and ambiguity in defining the managerial role, as well as difficult work relationships, can all affect a middle-of-the-road manager's ability to balance these elements effectively.
In terms of task and relationship dimensions, the Blake Mouton theory suggests different leadership styles based on the combination of these two dimensions. The style that best represents the Middle-of-the-road approach strives for adequate performance by balancing the necessity to get work done while maintaining morale.
Regarding task performance and arousal levels, Figure 10.7 from the provided reference indicates that task performance is optimum when arousal levels are moderate, with more difficult tasks requiring lower levels of arousal and easier tasks potentially benefiting from higher levels of arousal.