Re-examining the leader-follower relationship and supportive leadership: The role of the leader as attachment figure

Abstract

Organizational researchers have enriched our understanding of the leader follower relationship using leader member exchange (LMX) theory, which has theoretical foundations built on principles of social exchange. I contend that we can enhance our understanding of leader-follower dynamics with an alternate lens - attachment theory. I argue that leaders serve as attachment figures in the organizational context, and that the extent to which they fulfill functions of attachment (proximity maintenance, safe haven, and secure base) results in followers forming different types of attachment bonds to them. Dynamics of attachment avoidance and anxiety - anchors for dismissing, fearful, and anxious-ambivalent orientations toward the leader - help us understand different types of low quality leader-member exchanges. Furthermore, dynamics of attachment security with respect to the leader help us understand the essence of high-quality leader-member exchange.