Which statement describes Theory X in McGregor's framework?

• A. Employees are creative and enjoy work.
• B. Employees dislike work, are lazy, and must be coerced to perform.
• C. Employees are self-directed and seek responsibility.
• D. Employees are motivated by intrinsic factors.

Answer: (B)

In Theory X, the manager assumes people inherently dislike work, avoid effort, and must be coerced or tightly controlled to perform. This pessimistic view leads to an autocratic, directive style with close supervision and external rewards or punishments. The statement that employees dislike work, are lazy, and must be coerced to perform captures this perspective exactly. The other descriptions align more with Theory Y, which sees people as capable of self-direction, responsibility, and intrinsic motivation.