Interagency Conflict, Power, and Sanctioning Systems: An Alaskan Example

Authors

Dorothy M. Jones, University of Alaska

Abstract

The covert processes in the interagency system in Anchorage social services is the subject of this paper. The emphasis is on (1) conflicts between explicit goals of planning and rationality in social services and covert or hidden goals concerning protection of organizational jurisdiction; (2) the structure of interagency power; and (3) the socialization and regulation of member agencies' behavior. The data for the study derive from focused interviews with agency administrators and staff members and observations at community planning meetings. The major finding of the study is that the explicit goals of rationality, integration, and planning in social services are subverted by other hidden goals concerning member agencies' organizational survival interests. The domination of these hidden goals shapes the interagency power, control, and sanctioning system.

Recommended Citation

Jones, Dorothy M. (1978) "Interagency Conflict, Power, and Sanctioning Systems: An Alaskan Example," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 5: Iss. 3, Article 11.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1292
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol5/iss3/11