Resource Dependence Theory: A Political Economy Model of Organizations.

Abstract

Resource-dependence theory is a theory of organization(s) that seeks to explain organizational and interorganizational behavior in terms of those critical resources that an organization must have in order to survive and function. The theory focuses on the following: resources; the flow or exchange of resources between organizations; those dependencies and power differentials created as a result of unequal resource exchange; the constraining effects such dependence has on organizational action; and the effcrts by organizational leaders to manage dependence. With its emphasis on resource exchange, resource dependence represents a political-economy model of organizational and interorganizational behavior. Two strategies used by organizations--buffering and bridging--are discussed. Resource-dependence theory provides a useful framework for thinking about power differences across organizations and for describing the choice of adaptive strategies as a political activity. The theory's major limitation is its assumption that organizational behavior and structures are shaped primarily by materialistic forces; it fails to regard the role of cultural, ideological, and institutional forces. The theory should thei-efore be regarded as a partial, middle-range theory of organization. One figure is included. (Contains 20 references.) (LM1) ***************************i******************************************* Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. Resource Dependence Theory: A Political Economy Model of Organizations Boh L. Johnson, Jr., Ph.D. Department of Educational Administration College of Education University of Utah

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