Theory X and Y Paper

McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y:

Which is More Effective?

Kyle Fronk

Lebanon Valley College

Abstract

This paper will explore various published articles and online resources in regards to Douglas McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y. Not only will this paper explore resources concerning McGregor’s two theories mentioned before, it will also look at McGregor’s book “The Human Side of Enterprise”. By looking at both the original text in which McGregor presented Theory X and Theory Y and outside viewpoints on his theories, this paper will provide the reader with differing perspectives of McGregor’s behavioral management theories. The paper will begin by examining McGregor’s two theories in great detail, and will then be followed by comparing and contrasting his theories. After comparing and contrasting Theory X and Theory Y, the paper will use Circuit City and Google Inc. to provide real world applications of the two theories. This paper will finish by providing a conclusive idea for which of the two theories is a more effective form of management in today’s modern business world.

Keywords: management, theory, resources, business, paper, provide

McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y:

Which is More Effective?

According to the online Business Dictionary, behavioral management theory is the body of management thought based on the belief that the use of psychological techniques in motivating employees works better than rules and regulations proposed by classical management theory. The theory of behavioral management is often called the human relations movement because of the emphasis placed on worker satisfaction and the human dimension of work. Douglas McGregor, a behavioral theorist, believed that a better understanding of human behavior would lead to increased productivity. McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y have been very influential in the development and maturity of behavioral management thoughts in today’s business world. I believe that McGregor’s...