Final answer:
Ted is utilizing expectancy theory by understanding and offering personalized rewards to his employees, which increases their motivation and productivity, in line with Theory Y and efficiency wage theory. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Ted sets aside time to find out what kind of rewards each of his employees prefers and strives to offer these in the work environment, he is applying the principles associated with expectancy theory.
Expectancy theory suggests that individuals are motivated to perform and engage in behaviors when they believe that their efforts will lead to desired rewards and outcomes. By understanding and meeting his employees' preferences for rewards, Ted is increasing their motivation and the likelihood that they will work towards the goals he sets.
This practice aligns with the elements of Theory Y, which hypothesizes that workers are naturally motivated and seek fulfillment from their work, especially when they are given the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes and when they feel their contributions are valued.
The focus on personalized rewards also ties into the efficiency wage theory, which posits that being paid more than the market rate can lead to increased productivity as employees will be more motivated to work harder and stay with the employer. The correct option is c.