Structure and discretion: Missing links in representative bureaucracy

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Meier, KJ; Bohte, J
• 署名单位: Texas A&M University System; Texas A&M University College Station; Oakland University
• 刊物名称: JOURNAL OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION RESEARCH AND THEORY
• ISSN/ISSBN: 1053-1858
• DOI: 10.1093/oxfordjournals.jpart.a003511
• 发表日期: 2001
• 页码: 455-470
• 关键词: ethnicity; teacher; GENDER; RACE

摘要

Studies of representative bureaucracy highlight both passive and active forms of representation. Passive representation refers to similarities in demographic characteristics between bureaucrats and client populations. Active representation refers to situations in which bureaucracies work to further the needs of a particular group of people. In this study, we examine the role employee discretion plays in linking passive and active forms of representation in a sample of Ax hundred school districts in Texas. Specifically, we argue that active representation is enhanced in organizations that vest greater discretion in their employees. Our study reveals that minority student performance improves under organizational structures that promote, rather than limit, minority teacher discretion.