The study intended to identify if the assumptions of the “Theory Z” serve as predictors of the manager’s propensity for participative decision making. Earlier research reports that apart from employee’s intent to join in decision-making forum, the manager’s tendency is equally essential. The seven assumptions of the “Theory Z” were assessed for finding managers penchant for participative decision making. This study follows an explanatory sequential mixed method research approach with an emphasis on quantitative results. The sample comprises managers (strategical, tactical and operational) from thirteen Bangladeshi Textile Industries. Findings suggest that Ouchi’s assertion of the assumptions of the Theory Z (leadership style, trust, and organisational culture) have reliable predictability for manager’s propensity for participative decision making. The study theoretically contributes to the managers’ propensity for participative decision-making study by assessing the assumptions of the “Theory Z”. Practically, the findings present a convincing argument for managers to challenge their employees’ perceptions continually and to analyse objectively how their bias affects their decision-making processes in the least developed countries.
KEYWORDS: Theory Z, managers’ propensity for participative decision making, leadership, trust, organisational culture, Bangladesh