Structuration Theory in Urban Analysis: 2. Empirical Application

Abstract

This paper is the second in a two-part investigation into the utility of structuration theory in urban analysis. The focus here is on an application of the theory to analyze the “ghettoization” of ex-psychiatric patients in the City of Hamilton. First, methodologies are developed for institutional analysis and for the analysis of strategic conduct, utilizing the concept of bracketing. Secondly, a structuration analysis is undertaken of the ex-patient ghetto. This requires an institutional analysis of the deinstitutionalization policy and of the process of ghettoization, and a focus on strategic conduct to explain local outcomes in the built environment. The empirical application of structuration theory provided methodological and practical insights, as well as requiring a substantial development of some theoretical constructs. We are satisfied that structuration theory has sufficient merit for empirical work to warrant continued development and assessment.