McGregor's Theory X and Y

Theory X managers think that the workforce dislikes work and needs direction and control. Without this and the threat of punishment they will avoid work; believing that people would rather follow others than lead and that people are relatively unambitious and just want security without responsibility.

Theory X managers think the opposite; the workforce is capable of enjoying work and can be trusted to get on with things without close supervision.  The managers will assumes that people do not to be controlled and directed to ensure that the work is done, they respond well to praise and incentives, people are happy to lead and enjoy responsibility and that people are ambitious and will not only accept responsibility but also seek more.