The Role of Hispanic Public Administrators: A Theoretical and Empirical Analysis

Abstract

Empirical data on the experiences of Hispanic administrators operating in governmental bureaucracies are reported in this study. Based on role-analysis methodology and representative bureaucracy theory, a survey research instrument is generated to measure role consensus between Hispanic and white administrators of the state of California in regard to administrative responsibility. Role conflict, as perceived by Hispanic administrators, and strategies for conflict resolution also are explored. The study serves to document specific areas of consensus and conflict between Hispanic and institutional role expectations. The findings have implications for the study of minorities in government, administrative role analysis, and representative bureaucracy in democratic societies.