Institusjonalisert

Institusjonalisert is a term used to describe the process by which a practice, belief, or social arrangement becomes established and accepted within a society or organization. This establishment often occurs through formalization, such as the creation of laws, policies, or organizational structures, or through informal means like widespread acceptance and tradition. When something becomes institutionalized, it often gains a sense of permanence and legitimacy, influencing behavior and expectations.

The process of institutionalization can be observed in various contexts. For instance, the concept of a public education system is institutionalized, with established schools, curricula, and funding mechanisms. Similarly, democratic voting procedures are institutionalized norms and practices. In organizations, certain procedures, values, and hierarchies become institutionalized over time, shaping the organizational culture and how work is conducted.

Institutionalization implies that something has moved beyond a temporary or individual occurrence to become a recognized and enduring feature of a system. This can lead to stability and predictability but can also make it difficult to change established norms or practices, even if they become outdated or ineffective. The term can also carry a negative connotation, referring to the entrapment of individuals within rigid systems, such as in prisons or long-term care facilities, where personal autonomy is significantly limited.