Final answer:
The student's question relates to the Path-goal theory of leadership developed by Robert J. House, which emphasizes a leader's role in clarifying the path and aiding followers to reach their goals by adapting to their needs and the situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question is A. Path-goal theory of leadership, which indicates that successful leaders are those who can clarify the path to help their followers achieve their goals and make the journey easier by reducing roadblocks and pitfalls. According to Robert J. House, the developer of the Path-Goal theory, leaders should help followers by selecting a style that complements the circumstances and motivates them towards the goal. This theory emphasizes the flexible style of leadership that adjusts to the needs of the followers and the demands of the situation. The core idea is that leaders provide followers with the information, support, or resources needed to achieve their goals.
Leadership styles such as transactional and transformational leadership are also vital areas within the studies of leadership. While transactional leadership revolves around exchanges between the leader and followers, transformational leadership inspires and motivates followers beyond their self-interest for the good of the group or organization. These leadership styles are complementary, with most leaders displaying a degree of both.