Theory X refers to 'authoritarian management' style. Theory X is the theory that the average person dislikes work and will avoid it if he or she can, therefore most people must be forced with the threat of punishment to work towards organisational objectives. The average person prefers to be directed and to avoid responsibility is relatively unambitious, and wants security above all else. Theory X management style dominated many businesses where the managers perceived that the employees had negative traits. Theory X has been considered as a negative way of dealing with employees due to the inherent negative aspects of the theory. Theory Z advocates a combination of all that's best about Mcgregor's XY theory and modern Japanese management, which places a large amount of freedom and trust with workers.
Douglas McGregor was an American social psychologist who proposed his famous XY theory in his 1960 book 'The Human Side Of Enterprise'.
Theory X and theory Y are referred to commonly in the field of management and motivation and Mcgregor's XY Theory remains a valid basic principle from which to develop positive management style and techniques.
McGregor's XY Theory also remains central to organizational development, and to improving organizational culture.
McGregor's XY theory is based on the natural
rules for managing people.
McGregor maintained that there are two fundamental approaches to managing people. Many
managers tend towards theory X, and generally get poor results.
Enlightened managers use Theory Y, which produces better performance and results, and allows people to grow and develop.