Effects of language style and functional behavior on perceived leader effectiveness

Author

Dorothy Ann Cosby

Date of Award

6-1982

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Industrial and Organizational Psychology

Major Professor

Eric D. Sundstrom

Committee Members

R. T. Ladd, John Lounsbury

Abstract

The effects of functional versus nonfunctional behavior and the use of powerful versus nonpowerful language style on the perceived effectiveness of leaders were investigated in a sample of 97 undergraduate students consisting of sixteen five- to seven-person groups. It was predicted that a powerful language style would result in the leader being rated as effective by members, especially when the leader's task behaviors were functional. Results suggested that functional task behaviors led to ratings of greater effectiveness than nonfunctional behavior, but language style had no effects.

Recommended Citation

Cosby, Dorothy Ann, "Effects of language style and functional behavior on perceived leader effectiveness. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1982.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/14983