According to McGregor, what do Theory X assumptions hold?

Theory X, as proposed by Douglas McGregor, presents a perspective on management and motivation that assumes employees inherently dislike work and will avoid it if they can. This theory posits that workers are inherently lazy, lack ambition, and are indifferent to the needs of the organization. Managers who subscribe to Theory X tend to believe that without strict supervision and control, employees will not work effectively or productively.

This view contrasts sharply with Theory Y, which suggests that individuals find work fulfilling and are self-motivated to achieve organizational goals. Thus, while the other options reflect a more positive or nuanced understanding of employee behavior and motivation, the assumption that workers are lazy, uncreative, and indifferent captures the essence of Theory X beliefs, making this the correct answer. The perspective of Theory X often leads to authoritarian management styles focused on controlling and directing employees rather than empowering them.