Overcoming Dependence with Contingency Contracting

There is a discernible trend for organizations to be moving away from directive and authoritarian management styles, towards a more participative approach, which involves subordinates in taking more responsibility. This is linked to a move from bureaucratic role cultures to a more integrated style of organization. This poses the problem of how to move the individual from the dependence engendered by authoritarian systems to a relationship, between managers and subordinates, which is characterized by interdependence, a move which is very difficult to make. Transitional contingency contracting, a technique which gradually transfers control from the manager to the subordinate, is suggested as a process which can develop interdependence, while reducing the risk of becoming stuck in mutual dependence or generating rebellion (or counter dependence).