Adoption: a qualitative study of the effects of organizational culture and bureaucracy on outcomes
Adoption: a qualitative study of the effects of organizational culture and bureaucracy on outcomes
Issue Date
1996
Authors
Randolph, Della R.
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Abstract
This qualitative study explored adoption. Examined were the effects of culture, organizational culture, and bureaucracy within an adoption agency. How does the presence of these variables impact the process? What do individuals involved in the process experience? How does the culture of the adoption organization, presence of bureaucracy, and individual norms influence adoption outcomes?
This researcher was challenged to capture the rich experiences of individuals involved in the area of adoption. The lived experiences of prospective adopters, those who have adopted, and agency personnel are highlighted. The study also explored the question of bias within the process. Do adoption workers view prospective single adoptive parents the same as two-parent prospective adopters?
Data were obtained through the use of participant interviews and the researcher's account of gaining entrance to an adoption organization.
Results revealed that participants had overall satisfactory experiences. Prospective adopters who were single were not found to have encountered bias as a result of their single status. It was further revealed that the substantial amounts of paperwork and requirements do create barriers for adoption workers as well as the prospective adoptive parent. Staff shortages and the demands of the legal system significantly impede the process.
Though the study yielded overall positive experiences of each participant, there was a consensus that the process warranted change so that the stated mission of the agency, which is to place waiting children into adoptive homes, could be better adhered to.
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Keywords
Psychology