Date of Award

Spring 5-11-1998

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Glenda Dewberry Rooney

Second Advisor

Michael Schock

Third Advisor

Jon Wallace

Abstract

This study of The Salvation Army examined the relationship between the organizational character type and management style related to models of communication and decision making. The research statement of this study on the organizational character type of The Salvation Army indicates its capacity to involve personnel in communication and decision making processes. Carl Jung's psychological type theory provides the theoretical framework. Jung's theory explains human behavior in terms of individual preferences for acquiring information and making decisions. The Organizational Character Index, a Jungian typing instrument adapted to an organizational context, is used to determine the organizational character type. A sample of convenience, using three sampling units of the 107 Salvation Army officers, employee managers, and other employees provided quantitative data for the study. Qualitative data was collected through interviews with nine key informants consisting of three individuals from each of the sampling units. Findings indicated that The Salvation Army carries out its work internally with a strong sense of mission. The communication patterns and decision making occurs through a hierarchical system that often appears hidden. Other findings suggest strengths which enhance overall efficiency of the organization. A study of organizational culture and character type is important to social work because both clients and practitioners are affected by the values inherent in the organization.

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.1998.Gotzman.SS

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