Concept

Decoupling

A possible separation between formal structures and ongoing activity in an organisational neo-institutionalist account.

Overview

A possible separation between formal structures and ongoing activity in an organisational neo-institutionalist account.

Meanings Across Theories

Institutional TheoryCore concept source: It differs from non-compliance because a document-practice difference alone does not establish the organisational relation or its function.

Observable Research Manifestations

Formal policies, observed practices, implementation records, and multiple-position accounts may be compared.

Common Misuse

Treating any gap or implementation difficulty as decoupling.

Related scholars

John W. Meyer — Source author; no scholar profile is claimed in this phase.

Sources & verification

VerifiedThe linked record provides the source-specific vocabulary and bibliographic anchor for this concept page. — Meyer, J. W., & Rowan, B. (1977). Institutionalized organizations: Formal structure as myth and ceremony. American Journal of Sociology, 83(2), 340-363.
Editorially ReviewedThe definition, cross-theory distinction, related-entity explanation, and misuse warning are Syntag editorial synthesis, not a quotation or universal consensus.
Research GuidanceObservable research manifestations are study-dependent options, not a measurement recipe or automatic inference.

Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional academic advice.