Final answer:
Theory X assumption is that people prefer to be directed and to avoid responsibility. Managers assume that most people dislike work and are not innately self-directed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Theory X assumption is that people prefer to be directed and to avoid responsibility. In Theory X management approach, managers assume that most people dislike work and are not innately self-directed. They believe that employees need to be closely supervised and controlled, and that punishment and threats are necessary to achieve organizational goals.