The Perception of Leaders: A Competitive Test of Social Exchange Theory and Equity Theory

Abstract

Social exchange theory and equity theory were used to examine the perception of leaders in a small group context.  Participants (n = 154), involved in a semester long group project  assessed their leaders  contributions to the task and maintenance of the group using measures gauging social exchange and equity forces.   These measures were regressed onto desire to work with the leader again in the future. Overall, the results indicate greater support for social exchange theory.