A study of Fiedler's LPC and personality traits as predictors of leadership ability

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the LPC and personality traits as predictors of leadership behavior. Subjects were one hundred and seventy two trainees taking part in Junior Leadership Training in the Canadian Forces. Subject's leadership ability was evaluated on the basis of standardized military leadership training assessment. Subjects were administered Jackson's Personality Research Form (PRF), Fiedler's Least Prefered Co-worker Scale (LPC) and the Ohio State Ideal Leadership Questionnaire (ILB). In addition their scores for the Canadian Forces General Classification battery (GC) were obtained. The research was carried out in two phases. First, two groups of leadership trainees were administered a series of personality and leadership measures. Possible intervening variables such as learning ability, education and motivation were also assessed. Combining data from both groups a series of equations were calculated to predict leadership ability and age. Results showed no significant relationship between either the LPC or the ILB and Leadership (LDRSHP), however a number of PRF traits, as well as the GC test were significantly correlated. A combination of PRF traits (Desirability, Autonomy, Cognitive Structure, Defendence and Change) predicted LDRSHP. In phase 2 this equation was used to predict LDRSHP scores (PLDRSHP). The prediction of LDRSHP was improved when GC and Age were added to the predictor equation. A principle Component Factor Analysis of all leadership measures produced a three factor solution indicating two aspects of a leadership construct were being evaluated one of which indicated possible inherent personality characteristics.