Final answer:
Theory Y assumes that individuals are willing to work, responsible, and self-directed, as it embraces employee engagement in setting work goals and responsibilities (b). It contrasts with Theory X, which assumes that people inherently dislike work and must be controlled.
Step-by-step explanation:
Theory Y assumes that people are willing to work, accept responsibility, and are self-directed. This management approach is based on the belief that people enjoy their work and are motivated to fulfill their duties. According to Theory Y, people prefer to be engaged in setting their own work goals, and they are satisfied when given responsibility.
Contrasting this, Theory X posits that individuals inherently dislike work and must be coerced, controlled, or punished to achieve goals. In today's workplace, telecommuting and the ability of employees to set their own hours are examples of Theory Y principles at play, reflecting a trust in the worker's inherent responsibility and productivity. In a Theory Y environment, leaders use a transformational leadership style, encouraging creativity and participation, as opposed to the transactional, reward- and punishment-based approach of Theory X.