The Cognitive Resource

Theory(CRT)

By: Noreen M. Morales

Proponents:Fred Edward

Fiedler Joe Garcia

CRT – re-conceptualization of the Contingency Theory- arose out of the dissatisfaction of the Trait Theory

Intelligence

Exper

ienc

e

stress

stress stress

stress

stress

STREss

STREss

Key Variables in CRT

CRT - DESCRIPTIONS1. A leader’s

cognitive ability contributes to the performance of the team only when the leader’s approach is DIRECTIVE.

devotes intellectual effort to making

decisions, plans, and action strategies related

to the taskcommunicates theresults to the group

members in the form of directions,

instructions, and guidancecommands the support ofgroup members motivated to implement the leader’s

plans,decisions, and action

strategies.

Main steps in the process of how the leader’s intelligence contributes to

the task

CRT - Descriptions

2. STRESS affects the relationship between intelligence and decision quality.

CRT - DESCRIPTIONS

3. EXPERIENCE is positively related to decision quality under high stress.

CRT - DESCRIPTIONS

4. For simple tasks, leader intelligence and experience are irrelevant.

STRENGTHS OF CRT

1. CRT is a constant reminder of the hubris of intelligence.

2. The theory helps predict whether a

certain type of person will be able to lead in a stressful situation.

STRENGTHS OF CRT

3. The theory helps the placement of

persons in leadership positions by

suggesting that people be tested for intelligence and the ability to manage

stress in addition to assessing leadership

qualities.

CRITICISMS

1. Intelligence is not defined.

2. Types of stresses have not been covered in this

theory.

CRITICISMS

3. It does not talk about those leaders

who have both a good IQ and a good work experience.4. There has been no

mention made about the type of tasks that

need to be dealt with.

CRITICISMS

5. It is not totally correct that simple jobs do not require an intelligent or an experienced leader.

References:

http://faculty.css.edu/dswenson/web/LEAD/cogresourcetheory.htmlAccessed June 21, 2012

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/cognitive-resource-theory.htmlAccessed June 21, 2012

http://www.themanagersguide.co.uk/quiz-how-stressed-are-you.htmlAccessed June 21, 2012