Question

Karen, an experienced field officer, says that her police department is able to function efficiently because police officers of different ranks in her department are allowed to experiment with innovative ideas and tactics in her neighborhood. Which of the following statements is most likely true about Karen's police department?

A. The police department is highly centralized.
B. The department structure is deformalized.
C. The department structure is technocratic.
D. The police department is highly specialized.

Answer 1

Karen's police department likely has a deformalized department structure, promoting a flexible approach that allows for innovation and increased efficiency, which contrasts with the rigid nature of highly centralized or specialized bureaucracies.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the description of Karen's police department, it seems that the department allows for innovation and experimentation among officers of various ranks. This suggests a level of flexibility in the organizational structure, which is consistent with a deformalized department structure. In bureaucracies, a deformalized structure implies less emphasis on strict adherence to rules and hierarchy, encouraging a more collaborative and adaptable approach to work, which ultimately can lead to increased efficiency and effectiveness within the department. This environment contrasts with highly centralized or specialized bureaucracies, where rules and a clear chain of command are strictly followed, and each individual’s role is more narrowly defined. Deformalization allows for a more responsive and dynamic approach to policing that could better serve the needs of the community.