Question

Vincent believes that the organizational and operational structures of a police organization are solely determined by its political environment. He believes that powerful mayors and governors establish important laws that dictate policing norms in a community. Vincent would most likely support

A. communism theory.
B. safety valve theory.
C. institutional theory.
D. resource dependence theory.

Answer 1

Vincent's belief aligns with Institutional theory, which holds that organizations are shaped by their institutional environment, including laws, norms, and regulations set by political figures. Option C is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Vincent's belief that the organizational and operational structures of a police organization are heavily influenced by the political environment aligns with Institutional theory. This theory suggests that the formal structures of an organization, such as a police department, are determined by the broader institutional environment, including the political and legal systems in which they are embedded. Powerful figures such as mayors and governors do indeed play a role in establishing laws and policies that affect policing practices, aligning with this theory.

Institutional theory focuses on how institutional structures, which include laws, norms, and regulations, shape the behavior and operations of organizations. The theory acknowledges that organizations need to conform to the expectations and pressures of their environment to gain legitimacy and support. Hence, Vincent would most likely support institutional theory (Option C), as it encompasses the notion that political forces can dictate the nature of policing.