In the leader-member exchange model, which group receives more supervisor time and attention and typically higher performance?

• A. In-group
• B. Out-group
• C. All groups equally
• D. Neither

Answer: (A)

In the leader-member exchange model, leaders develop different quality relationships with subordinates. The in-group consists of members who have a high-quality exchange with the supervisor—trust, open communication, mutual obligations, and a willingness to take on extra duties. Because of this strong relationship, they receive more supervisor time and attention, more support, and access to opportunities, which typically leads to higher performance. The out-group, with a lower-quality exchange, gets less time and attention and often shows lower performance. Therefore, the group that receives more supervisor time and attention and typically higher performance is the in-group.