Which phase of leader-member interaction is characterized by leaders being self and other interested?

The acquaintance phase is characterized by a developing relationship where both leaders and members engage in mutual interests. During this stage, leaders begin to understand their followers better, and followers start to develop trust and respect towards their leaders. This phase signifies a shift from a more formal interaction to one that encourages personal connections.

In this phase, both parties work towards establishing common goals, and there's a balance between self-interest and the other’s interest. The leaders are not only focused on their own objectives but also consider the aspirations and needs of their team members. This dual focus is essential for building a collaborative environment, which serves as the foundation for the stronger ties that characterize subsequent phases.

The other options represent different stages of leader-member relationships. For instance, the stranger phase typically involves limited interaction and understanding, making it less conducive for mutual interests. The partnership phase denotes a high level of trust and collaboration, while the transactional phase is more focused on exchanges of resources rather than a developing relationship based on mutual interest. Thus, the acquaintance phase is the most accurate representation of a phase where both leaders and members are taking into account their personal interests alongside those of the other.