Discretion

PMR — pp. 1-29 2026-08-25 Original Gender inequality at the street level explained: redoing gender through informal practices Ofri Shalev Greenman, Einat Lavee Abstract This study examines whether gendered differences in discretion shape inequality among street-level bureaucrats (SLBs). Focusing on the provision of informal personal resources (IFRs) to clients, we analyzed 59 in-depth interviews with social workers in Israel. While both women and men engage in extensive informal practices, their scope and form differ. Two mechanisms drive the reproduction of inequality: invisibility versus visibility of IFRs, and boundary setting between personal and professional spheres. These findings reveal that discretion in implementation not only is gendered but also reproduces conventional hierarchies, intensifying gender inequality at the street level of public administration.

PMR — pp. 1-26 2026-08-01 Original Accountability systems and coping in the bureaucratic environment Christine H. Roch, Ellen V. Rubin Abstract Advocates for strengthening accountability in government assume stronger consequences will change bureaucratic behavior. This study considers whether more strict accountability regimes change bureaucrats’ discretionary efforts. We consider this puzzle using a conjoint experiment with teachers in New York State. Our results show street-level bureaucrats in high accountability settings prioritize low-performing clients, while street-level bureaucrats in moderate accountability settings prioritize clients exhibiting high levels of effort. Overall, teachers demonstrate a weak preference to provide extra assistance to students who are hardworking and low-performing.

PMR — pp. 1-29 2026-06-28 Original How does ethics reform in government affect moral reasoning and perceived discretion in patronage-prone organizations? Minsung Michael Kang, Don S. Lee, Soonae Park