McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y

Question 1

Theory X and Theory Y was formulated by…

Answer 1

Douglas McGregor in 1960, suggesting two different views on worker movitation.

Question 2

McGregor’s viewed… x3

Answer 2

Theory Y more valid and reasonable than theory X as it would lead to higher motivation
Theory X relied on authority to control which generates resistance and restricted output
Theory X behaviour was the result of how staff are treated in orgs

Question 3

Advantages of Theory X… x2

Answer 3

Focused on achieving orgs goals
Some employees prefer authoritative management

Question 4

Disadvantages to Theory X… x2

Answer 4

Some do not work well under enforcement and will resist change
Not everyone motivated by financial incentives and will decrease their effort, effecting quality of output

Question 5

Advantages of theory Y… x3

Answer 5

Gives employee responsibility which increases morale and productivity
Benefit from employee initiative which could give business competitive edge
Employee input in decision making will make them feel valued reducing staff turnover

Question 6

Disadvantages of theory Y… x2

Answer 6

Hard to measure success
Workers could take advantage of new freedom

Question 7

Overall limitations of McGregor’s theory X and Y is… x2

Answer 7

Not all employees will fit into either category as the workplace is not a “two sizes fits all” environment
Job enrichment is often expensive as it requires training and development of workers

Question 8

Relevance of Theory X and Y today…x4

Answer 8

Theory X has fallen out of fashion but in large organisations, due to large numbers of employees and tight deadlines, it may by unavoidable
Workers desire to have more meaningful careers that provide more than money made Theory Y more popular
Total quality management is based on Theory Y and is used all across the world
Allows managers to better understand employees and change management styles to better motivate them

Question 9

Features of theory x are…x4

Answer 9

Naturally dislike work and will try to get out of it when they can
Must be threatened with punishment and supervised to get tasks done
Want to be told exactly what they must do
Have security as their greatest need

Question 10

Features of theory Y are…x4

Answer 10

Thinking work is fulfilling and natural
Can use self discipline to achieve their objectives
Want to be given responsibility and decision making power
Have self actualisation as their greatest need.