Theory X , Theory Y

Douglas McGregor has formulated these two models the Theory Y and Theory X .This theory deals about the dislikeness of an employee to work and this is inherent to humans. Theory X Assumptions: . Because of their dislike for work, most people must be controlled and threatened before they will work hard. .The average human prefers to be directed, dislikes responsibility, is unambiguous, and desires security above everything. .These assumptions lie behind most organizational principles today, and give rise both to "tough" management with punishment and tight controls, and "soft" management which aims at harmony at work. .Both these are “wrong “because man needs more than financial rewards at work. He also needs deeper order motivation- the opportunity to fulfil himself. .Theory X managers do not give their staff this opportunity so that the employees behave in the expected fashion. Theory Y Assumptions: .The expenditure of physical and mental effort in work is as natural as play or rest. .Control and punishment are not the only ways to make people work hard .Man will direct himself if he is committed to the aims of the organization. .If a job is satisfying, and then the result will be commitment to the organization. .The average man learns, under proper conditions, not only to accept but to seek responsibility. .Imagination, creativity, and ingenuity can be used to solve work problems by a large number of employees. .Under the conditions of modern industrial life, the intellectual potentialities of the average man are only partially utilized. These assumptions are based on social science research which has been carried out , and demonstrate the potential which is present in man and which organizations should recognize in order to become more effective. Employees must be valued by the organizations to promote progress and development to both.