Leadership Styles and Its Influence on Employee Motivation and Organizational Commitment in Academic Institutions

This study examined the influence of leadership styles on employee motivation and organizational commitment in academic institutions. It focused on transformational, transactional, laissez-faire, and path-goal leadership, aiming to identify which styles most effectively enhance motivation and commitment among academic staff. A quantitative correlational design was used, involving 22 respondents from higher education institutions in Nueva Ecija and Zambales. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. Results showed that transformational leadership was most prevalent and effective, promoting innovation, growth, and recognition. Path-goal and transactional styles also had positive effects. Respondents reported high levels of both intrinsic motivation (personal fulfillment) and extrinsic motivation (rewards and recognition). A strong positive correlation (r = 0.723) was found between leadership styles and employee motivation and commitment, though not statistically significant. The study concludes that effective leadership, particularly transformational and path-goal, enhances academic employees’ motivation and commitment. Institutions are encouraged to adopt leadership practices that foster engagement, recognition, and professional development.