What type of management style assumes that employees dislike work and require control?

The correct answer is Theory X, which is rooted in the assumptions of a traditional management approach. This theory, developed by Douglas McGregor in the 1960s, posits that employees inherently dislike work and will avoid it whenever possible. Thus, managers who adopt a Theory X style believe that employees need to be closely supervised and controlled to ensure productivity. This viewpoint leads to a more autocratic management style, where strict rules and enforcement measures are common to motivate employees through external factors such as rewards or punishment.

In contrast, the other management styles reflect different beliefs about employee motivation and engagement. For example, a participative management style emphasizes collaboration and input from employees, suggesting a belief that they enjoy their work and might be more productive when involved in decision-making. Transactional management focuses on an exchange process involving rewards and penalties based on performance but does not assume that employees dislike work. Similarly, Theory Y posits a fundamentally positive view of employees, suggesting that they are self-motivated and seek fulfillment in their work, which is the opposite of the assumptions made in Theory X.

Thus, Theory X is distinguished by its view that employees need significant direction and control due to a belief that they are not inclined to take initiative or responsibility in a work