Douglas McGregor
Theory Origins
Theory X
Theory Y
X vs. Y
100

Where did McGregor teach?

MIT

100

What time period influenced Theory X and Y?

World War II era

100

Is Theory X positive or negative?

Negative

100

Is Theory Y positive or negative?

Positive

100

Who controls decisions in Theory X?

The Manager

200

What book did he write in 1960?

The Human Side of Enterprise

200

What field became popular in business in the 1940s–50s?

Psychology

200

What do Theory X managers believe about workers?

They dislike work and avoid responsibility

200

What do Theory Y managers believe about workers?

They enjoy work and seek responsibility

200

Who helps make decisions in Theory Y?

The Team

300

What two theories did he create?

Theory X and Theory Y

300

What shift did McGregor’s ideas create?

From mechanical management to human-centered management

300

What kind of jobs fit Theory X?

Routine or manual work

300

What type of jobs fit Theory Y?

Creative or problem solving jobs

300

How is communication in Theory X?

One-way (boss to worker)

400

What did he study in university?

Psychology

400

When was The Human Side of Enterprise published?

1960

400

How do Theory X managers control workers?

With strict rules and punishment

400

How do Theory Y managers lead?

By coaching and trusting employees

400

How is communication in Theory Y?

Two-way (open discussion)

500

When was McGregor born?

1906

500

What kind of work helped spread these theories?

White-collar work

500

What’s one problem with Theory X?

Low morale and creativity

500

What’s one risk of Theory Y?

Lack of discipline or slower decisions

500

Which theory encourages innovation?

Theory Y