Final answer:
A Theory Y manager would assume that workers enjoy work and seek inner satisfaction from it. Workers under Theory Y leadership are encouraged to take on responsibilities and participate in decision-making, contributing to the efficiency and safety of the work environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
An assumption about people by a Theory Y manager would be that workers enjoy work and find it natural. Theory Y is characterized by the belief that employees are not only capable of carrying out their assigned tasks, but also have the potential to seek fulfillment and satisfaction in their work.
Managers who subscribe to Theory Y encourage employee participation in setting personal and work goals, and they value employee input on matters of efficiency and safety. In a Theory Y environment, managerial goals are achieved through a collaborative approach, with enticements and rewards rather than punishments.
An example of Theory Y in practice is Toyota's production lines policy, which empowers any employee to stop the line to address defects.
This participative and trust-based approach to management fosters a work environment where employees are motivated by their work, engage in creative problem-solving, and contribute to continuous improvement efforts within the organization.