Question

Which of the following is true of Theory X managers?

A. They are inherently lazy
B. They assume people are inherently motivated to work
C. They design structures and systems that will ensure people work hard
D. They adopt a relatively humanistic approach to management practice.

Answer 1

Theory X managers design strict structures and systems to ensure that employees work hard, using rules and punishments as motivators.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided regarding Theory X managers, the one that is true is that they design structures and systems that will ensure people work hard. Theory X is based on the assumption that people inherently dislike work and must be coerced and controlled to work effectively. Managers adopting Theory X believe that strict supervision, control, and a hierarchical structure are necessary to motivate staff.

Central to this approach is the use of rules and punishments to accomplish organizational goals. Unlike Theory Y, which cultivates a participative environment, Theory X adopts a more authoritative style, focusing on efficiency and production rather than the humanistic aspect of work.