‘X-Y Theory’ Questionnaire

Score the statements (5 = always, 4 = mostly, 3 = often, 2 = occasionally, 1 = rarely, 0 = never)

To indicate whether the situation and management style is ‘X’ or ‘Y’:

1. My boss asks me politely to do things, gives me reasons why, and invites my suggestions.

2. I am encouraged to learn skills outside of my immediate area of responsibility.

3. I am left to work without interference from my boss, but help is available if I want it.

4. I am given credit and praise when I do good work or put in extra effort.

5. People leaving the company are given an 'exit interview' to hear their views on the organization.

6. I am incentivised to work hard and well.

7. If I want extra responsibility my boss will find a way to give it to me.

8. If I want extra training my boss will help me find how to get it or will arrange it.

9. I call my boss and my boss's boss by their first names.

10. My boss is available for me to discuss my concerns or worries or suggestions.

11. I know what the company's aims and targets are.

12. I am told how the company is performing on a regular basis.

13. I am given an opportunity to solve problems connected with my work.

14. My boss tells me what is happening in the organization.

15. I have regular meetings with my boss to discuss how I can improve and develop.

Total score
60-75 = strong Y-theory management (effective short and long term)
45-59 = generally Y-theory management
16-44 = generally X-theory management
0 -15 = strongly X-theory management (autocratic, may be effective short-term, poor long-term)

To indicate whether the person prefers being managed by ‘X’ or ‘Y’ style:

1. I like to be involved and consulted by my boss about how I can best do my job.

2. I want to learn skills outside of my immediate area of responsibility.

3. I like to work without interference from my boss, but be able to ask for help if I need it.

4. I work best and most productively without pressure from my boss or the threat of losing my job.

5. When I leave the company I would like an ‘exit interview’ to give my views on the organization.

6. I like to be incentivised and praised for working hard and well.

7. I want to increase my responsibility.

8. I want to be trained to do new things.

9. I prefer to be friendly with my boss and the management.

10. I want to be able to discuss my concerns, worries or suggestions with my boss or another manager.

11. I like to know what the company's aims and targets are.

12. I like to be told how the company is performing on a regular basis.

13. I like to be given opportunities to solve problems connected with my work.

14. I like to be told by my boss what is happening in the organization.

15. I like to have regular meetings with my boss to discuss how I can improve and develop.

Total score
60-75 = strongly prefers Y-theory management
45-59 = generally prefers Y-theory management
16-44 = generally prefers X-theory management
0 -15 = strongly prefers X-theory management

Most people prefer ‘Y-theory’ management. These people are particularly uncomfortable in ‘X-theory’ situations and are unlikely to be productive, especially long-term, and are likely to seek alternative situations. This quick test provides a broad indication as to management style and individual preference, using the ‘X-Y Theory’ definitions.