A characteristic of the contingency approach to management is

A) bivariate analysis.
B) open-system perspective.
C) closed-system view.
D) highly theoretical research orientation.
E) a Theory X view.

The contingency approach to management emphasizes the importance of considering the unique situation and context of an organization in determining the most effective management approach. This approach takes an open-system perspective, recognizing that organizations operate in a dynamic environment and must be adaptable to change. The other options (A, C, D, and E) do not reflect key characteristics of the contingency approach. Bivariate analysis is a statistical technique, not a management approach. A closed-system view assumes that the organization operates independently of its environment, which is contrary to the contingency approach. Highly theoretical research orientation may be a characteristic of some contingency theorists, but it is not a defining characteristic of the approach. Finally, a Theory X view assumes that employees are inherently lazy and must be coerced to work, which is inconsistent with the contingency approach's emphasis on situational factors.