Frank Shipper and Charles S. White (1999), Vol. 52, pp. 49-66. Human Relations.


The relationships among mastery and frequency of managerial behaviors, and subunit effectiveness have frequently been confused. This study investigates both main and interactive effects. The results show that the interaction effect can often be the strongest effect and that increasing frequency without improving mastery can sometimes be detrimental. Furthermore, these results offer a possible explanation as to why research of managerial behavior has been so inconclusive. In addition, the results question popular advice given often to managers. Finally, some recommendations are made as to how management development could be made more effective based on the results of this study.