Which statement best describes a lazy and unmotivated employee's characteristics according to Theory X?

Theory X, as proposed by Douglas McGregor, characterizes a certain perspective on employee motivation and behavior. According to this theory, managers who adopt a Theory X viewpoint believe that employees are inherently lazy, lack ambition, and prefer to avoid responsibility. As a result, they are often seen as needing to be closely supervised and controlled to ensure they perform their tasks.

The choice that states lazy and unmotivated employees "prefer to follow than to lead" aligns perfectly with Theory X. This is because individuals who are described under this theory tend to shy away from leadership roles and decision-making opportunities, as they may not seek out challenges or take initiative. They often feel more comfortable in positions where they can simply comply with instructions rather than be the one guiding others or innovating.

In contrast, the other choices describe characteristics opposite to those ascribed to employees viewed through the lens of Theory X. Seeking responsibility, being self-directed, and having a willingness to innovate are attributes associated with Theory Y, which reflects a more optimistic view of human motivation and capability. This perspective recognizes that employees are capable of self-management and are motivated by factors beyond just monetary rewards.