A Response to Horton's “Framework for a Theory of TA and Organizational Development”

Abstract

In our article, we critique Horton's Framework for a Theory of TA and Organizational Development. Horton stated in the July, 1976, TAJ, that McGregor's Theory X is viewed as a constant Parent, Theory Y as a constant Child, and Theory Z as a constant Adult. We agree that Theory X represents a constant Parent approach to managing. But we strongly disagree that Theory Y represents a constant Child. We feel that Mr. Horton, like many others, misunderstands the essence of Theory Y. An understanding of McGregor's concepts reveals Theory Z to be an unnecessary duplication since Theory Y is also a dynamic approach to managing, and suggests that managers use appropriate ego states to manage those in organizations. Thus, under Theory Y, the adult becomes the executive of the manager's personality.