McGregor's Theory X and Y

McGregor's Theory X and Y describe two different management styles based on assumptions about employee motivation. Theory X assumes employees are generally lazy, need supervision, and avoid responsibility, so managers tend to be authoritarian. In contrast, Theory Y views employees as motivated, responsible, and capable of self-direction, leading managers to adopt a participative and trust-based approach. These theories help explain how managers’ beliefs about workers influence their leadership style and workplace environment.