In short Theory X management style is
based on the assumption that workers:
dislike work and will avoid it when possible; need to be forced with the threat of punishment to work towards organisational objectives. Prefer to be directed; to avoid responsibility; are relatively unambitious, and want security above all else.
While most hackers and computer programmers enjoy to use their intellectual potential to solve challenging problems (
mastery) in their work, are proud to contribute substantially to the company success (
purpose) and are keen on taking responsibility for their work (
autonomy).
This is a scientific finding.
Theory Y management style is based on assumptions more similar to those. As Theory X management style represent an extreme and real people have a style that is a combination of the two and stand somewhere between these two extremes. If you want to check what is the style of a specific manager or what style to you prefer, try this questionnaire.
Given a management similar to the Theory X style in an IT department, what can be the consequences of actions based on assumptions that don't match with reality for computer programmers, hackers and geeks ?
See also:
Leadership styles (for sw development)