Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the leadership style of
principals’ and teachers’ organizational commitment in primary schools of Dega Damot
Woreda, Amhara National Regional State. A correlational research design was used to conduct
the study. The sample of the study consisted of 147 teachers’ from 10 general public primary
schools that was selected using a simple random sampling technique. Teachers participated in
the study. Data were collected using close ended standardized questionnaire. The data were
analyzed using both descriptive and Pearson correlation statistics. Descriptive statistics such as
mean and standard deviations were used while; Pearson correlation coefficient analysis
techniques were used. The findings of the study indicated that the autocratic leadership style with
a mean score of 3.89 was found that has been predominantly adopted by principals. Continuance
commitment with a mean score of 3.78 was found the commitment that has been highly exhibited
by teachers. Finally, a statistically significant positive and strong relationship was found
between principals’ leadership style and teachers’ organizational commitment in general
primary schools’ of Dega Damot Woreda. In conclusion, autocratic leadership has been
predominantly used by principals followed by democratic leadership style in the schools when
laissez- fair leadership style was used least. Moreover, continuance commitment has been highly
exhibited by the teachers over those normative and affective commitments. Autocratic and
Democratic leaderships were also significantly correlated with commitments. The study
recommended that managers in educational organizations in general and principals in schools
should gain the advantage of competent leadership styles in acquiring and retaining teachers by
keeping them motivated and committed.