Cultural Theory and the Security Fraternity

• NCJ Number: 217080
• Journal: Acta Criminologica Volume: 19 Issue: 3 Dated: 2006 Pages: 145-155
• Author(s): D. Kokt
• Date Published: 2006
• Length: 11 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: South Africa
• Note: Downloaded January 23, 2007. To access the full text PDF: 1) select the provided PDF link; 2) from the Acta Criminologica Web site, select "Table of Contents"; 3) select the corresponding Volume and Issue (see the NCJRS abstract record for the exact Volume and Issue); 4) scroll the Table of Contents to the exact article; and 5) click on the "full text" icon.

Annotation

This paper uses an anthropological approach in proposing an organizational structure best suited to the private security industry in South Africa.

Abstract

Cultural theory, also known as the group/grid analysis, is a typological paradigm that was developed by the social anthropologist, Mary Douglas (1970, 1978) for the purposes of comparing cultures and the forms of social organization that support them. The Douglas model proposes that individual behavior, perceptions, attitudes, beliefs, and values are shaped and controlled by constraints that can be grouped into two categories: group commitment and grid control. Group commitment pertains to frequency of interaction, degree of mutuality, scope in interpersonal relationships, and boundary tightness. Low group strength implies that individuals negotiate their own way without reference to others. Grid control pertains to the constraints on social interaction and the subsequent behavior of individuals due to this role differentiation. Since the private security industry deals with safety and security matters, it must be regulated by legislation. This suggests a hierarchical structure that facilitates tight controls on group interactions in order to ensure that they comply with legislation and government regulations; however, in order to provide for the innovative development of crime-prevention and loss-control measures, there must be flexibility and opportunities for individual and group initiative within the hierarchical structure. A major South African private security company is examined and determined to be a model for such an organizational structure. 2 figures and a 23-item bibliography