Workers who work only because they need to be paid are an example of which assumption of Theory X?

• A. People always act in the best interest of the firm
• B. People are driven by intrinsic satisfaction from work
• C. People are motivated primarily by economic rewards
• D. People are naturally creative and seek responsibility

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that Theory X is a management theory that assumes certain characteristics about workers' motivations and behaviors.
2. Identify that Theory X generally assumes workers are inherently lazy, dislike work, and need to be coerced or controlled to perform.
3. Recognize that the assumption 'Workers who work only because they need to be paid' aligns with the idea that people are motivated primarily by economic rewards, which is a key part of Theory X.
4. Compare the given options to the core assumptions of Theory X, noting that intrinsic satisfaction and creativity are more aligned with Theory Y, the contrasting theory.
5. Conclude that the correct assumption of Theory X in this context is 'People are motivated primarily by economic rewards.'