What is the Theory T and Theory T+
Theory T and Theory T+ are complementary theories of Geert Hofstede since Theory X and Theory Y (by Douglas McGregor) are not suitable to explain the behavior of management in Southeast Asia (SEA) countries.
Both Theory T and Theory T+ are based on the following Southeast Asia assumptions:
- Work is a necessity, but not a goal of life.
- People need to find the right and peaceful place.
- Absolute objectives exist only with god.
- People should find their rightful place in peace and harmony with their environment.
- People behave as members of a family and/or group, and those who do not are rejected by society.
Theory T explains that the people that believe in traditional and rarely accept change.
Theory T+ explains that people believe that changes can happen, it is natural. So the Theory T+ people always accept the change.
Southeast Asia (SEA) countries consist of Brunei, Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, as well as the islands that exist in this area.
Theory T and Theory T+ Summary
Geert Hofstede also summarizes the characteristics of the behavior of people in Southeast Asia as follows:
Focus on maintaining social relations of people: Southeast Asian people focus on maintaining relationships. Focusing on living together like a family. As well as the promotion in career will be considered with trust and relationship more than skills.
The objective is based on God: The motivation to do something of Southeast Asian nations is willed by God.
Work is a necessity, but not a goal of life: Work is not everything in life for Southeast Asia people.
Find the right to live a peaceful life: Southeast Asia people are focused on finding the right place to live a peaceful life. They can adjust themselves to the environment and believe that everything changes are natural.
Tradition is a source of wisdom: The average people being dislikes change and will rightly avoid it if he or she can.
