Final answer:
Theory X management assumes that workers are naturally uninterested in work (A) and that they must be externally motivated (B), so the correct answer is D) Two of the above.
Step-by-step explanation:
Within the context of organizational management, Theory X management is built on a series of assumptions about human behavior and motivation that are somewhat pessimistic.
Specifically, Theory X assumes that A) The worker is basically uninterested in work and B) Worker must be motivated to work through external forces, such as rules and punishments. This is in contrast to Theory Y, which assumes that people find work to be a natural and desirable part of life and are self-motivated to fulfill their tasks.
Theory X managers are likely to use strict supervision and a structured rewards and punishments system to control and motivate their workforce. Therefore, the answer to the student's question would be D) Two of the above, referring to both A and B being correct assumptions of Theory X management.