Superior's Upward Influence, Satisfaction, and Openness in Superior-Subordinate Communication: A Reexamination of the "Pelz Effect"

Utilizing questionnaire data collected from subordinates (Ss) in three different organizations, this study reexamined the validity of the “Pelz Effect.” Specifically, the investigation explored the House et al. assertion that, for subordinates who perceive their supervisors as supportive leaders, there exists a curvilinear rather than positive linear association between supervisors’ upward influence and subordinates’ openness and satisfaction with supervision. Results, in general, did not support the House et al. position, but rather Pelz's original findings. However, analyses suggest the additional conclusion that the “Pelz Effect” is viable for subordinates who perceive their superiors as supportive or nonsupportive leaders, but has its greatest effects for subordinates in the former group.