Developing a measurement model of institutional processes in policing

Abstract

Purpose Institutional theory shows promise as a viable framework for understanding police organization structures and activities but difficulties in measuring its core concepts make testing problematic. In order to advance the application of institutional theory in policing, this paper's aim is to develop a measurement model of institutional pressures derived from DiMaggio and Powell's discussion of institutional isomorphism. Design/methodology/approach First and second‐order confirmatory factor analyses are performed on secondary data originally collected in a 1997 national survey of law enforcement agencies about their approach to community policing. Findings The results showed a refined model of institutional processes including three constructs – professionalization, publications, and mimesis. A construct indicated by funding measures does not seem to be consistent with other institutional pressures. Research limitations/implications The research made use of available data and existing measures not explicitly constructed for the purpose of theory testing. Nevertheless, the results appear to be consistent with institutional theory. Originality/value The model provides a framework for future testing of institutional theory in policing and avenues for the development of additional indicators.