Douglas McGregor – Theory X and Theory Y

McGregor developed two theories of human behaviour at work: Theory and X and Theory Y. He did not imply that workers would be one type or the other, the two theories were two extremes - with a spectrum of possible behaviours in between.

Theory X

• Workers dislike work and will avoid it where possible
• Threat of punishment will encourage work to be done and objectives met
• Individuals who lack ambition, dislike responsibility and prefer to be led
• Managers impose a management system of coercion, control and punishment

Theory Y

• Workers are simply ordinary people who apply self-control and self-direction themselves in order to complete targets without threat of punishment
• Workers perform best when listened to and their ideas appreciated
• Treat workers with respect, and they will work harder in return
• Managers organise social events and listen to staff