Which assumption belongs to Theory X rather than to Theory Y?
AWork is as natural to people as play or rest
BThe average person prefers to be directed
CPeople seek out responsibility when conditions allow
DMost workers show imagination and creativity
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. The average person prefers to be directed
1. Theory X assumes the average person dislikes work and will avoid it if possible.
2. It assumes that people must be controlled, directed, or threatened with punishment to get them to make an effort.
3. It also assumes the average person prefers to be directed, avoids responsibility, is relatively unambitious, and wants security above all else.
4. Theory Y instead assumes that work is as natural as play or rest.
5. Theory Y assumes that under proper conditions the average person not only accepts responsibility but seeks it out.
6. Theory Y also assumes that most workers have a relatively high degree of imagination and creativity.
7. Only the preference for being directed sits on the pessimistic side, so it is the Theory X assumption.
_Source: OpenStax Introduction to Business (CC BY 4.0), Ch 9 "Motivating Employees", section 9.4 McGregor's Theories X and Y_
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