LEADERSHIP THEORIES     3 
components that together in characteristics form the path-goal theory in its objectivity to the role 
of Path-Goal theory as an alternative participative leadership. The process as such ensures that 
Path-Goal theory emphasizes on achievement-oriented leadership in strategies that are proposed 
(Polston-Murdoch, 2013).  
Leader-Member Theory 
Unlike the Path-Goal theory, LME theory deviates from the various opinions elaborately 
discussed the different styles of leadership as addressed in most of studies and leadership 
perspectives (Zacher, Pearce, Rooney, & McKenna, 2014). The Leader-Member Exchange 
theory (LME), conceptualizes the different concepts of leadership through a point that 
emphasizes on the various interactions that are there to the followers and their leaders. The 
theory based on the interactive treatment that exists between the leaders and their follower. 
According to Zacher, Pearce, Rooney, & McKenna (2014), unlike the vertical linkage theory that 
is the in the Path-Goal theory, the relationship that exists in LME takes the form of dyadic ties 
with both the leader and the follower interacting at interphases that guarantee mutuality in their 
association.  
Current studies have based the LME theory as an idea that has the potential for enhancing 
sustainability and development within our societies. The interactional basis at the score of 
mutuality ensures that the qualities of a leader stands presented in their ability to influence 
empowerment among their followers (Zacher, Pearce, Rooney, & McKenna, 2014). The studies 
on the LME expound on the fact that the type of interaction that exists among the followers and 
their leaders ensures that the methodology can compensate for the various drawbacks that exist at 
the time of empowering their followers. The leaders as such have the chance of addressing any