Final answer:
Research has consistently shown that transformational leadership, marked by inspiration, support, and developmental opportunities, leads to increased levels of organizational commitment from employees following their managers' participation in related training programs. A. Higher levels of organizational commitment
Step-by-step explanation:
Employees whose managers participated in transformational leadership training programs reported higher levels of organizational commitment afterward. This conclusion can be drawn from various studies that have looked into the outcomes of leadership training. For example, research by Arthur, Bennett, Edens, and Bell in 2003 highlighted that organizational training is generally effective. In the context of transformational leadership, studies such as those by Eagly, Johannesen-Schmidt, & van Engen in 2003 have found that this leadership approach often leads to more effective outcomes compared to transactional leadership styles.
Studies specifically focusing on transformational leadership have indicated several positive outcomes. Transformational leaders are seen as charismatic, inspirational, and supportive of individual growth, facilitating a conducive environment for enhancing job performance and satisfaction. A study by Ugboro in 2006 suggested that such leadership styles significantly influence organizational commitment, reinforcing the choice of increased commitment in the multiple-choice question. Moreover, the mentoring aspect of transformational leadership can be linked to findings by Allen, Lentz, & Day in 2006, where mentoring was associated with higher job satisfaction and tangible outcomes such as promotions and increased salaries.
The body of evidence suggests that transformational leadership training can effectively shape a work environment that boosts employee morale and performance. This style of leadership supports employees in their growth, aligns with their need for leadership, and facilitates a strong positive leader-follower relationship. Therefore, the most accurate answer to the question would be that employees reported 'higher levels of organizational commitment' as a result of their managers' participation in transformational leadership training programs.