What is a primary feature of Theory X regarding people's attitudes towards work?

In Theory X, a primary feature is the belief that people have an inherent dislike for work. This perspective suggests that employees are generally unmotivated and need to be closely supervised and controlled to ensure productivity. The theory posits that individuals will avoid work whenever possible and that they require incentives or coercion to engage in work activities. This belief influences managerial approaches, leading to stricter oversight and a more authoritarian style of leadership, as managers assume that workers do not have intrinsic motivation.

The context of the other choices highlights contrasting views associated with different management theories or assumptions about human behavior. For instance, some theories propose that work can be enjoyable and fulfilling, or that individuals seek responsibility and prefer autonomy. Theory X directly challenges these ideals by emphasizing a more pessimistic view of human nature in a work context.