Which theory posits that corruption is limited and caused by bad apples entering the department?

• A. Rotten-apple theory of corruption
• B. Systematic theory of corruption
• C. Behaviorism
• D. Use of force model

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is whether corruption is seen as localized to a few individuals or as something rooted in the whole system. The rotten-apple theory of corruption says that a small number of officers—bad apples—enter the department and bring corruption with them, leading to only limited, individual-level corruption rather than widespread systemic decay. This view fits the phrase “corruption is limited and caused by bad apples entering the department” because it attributes corruption to individual actors whose presence taints only a portion of the force, rather than to the department’s overall structure or culture.

In contrast, the systematic theory would argue corruption is built into the organizational environment—culture, incentives, policies, supervision—so it’s more pervasive and part of the system rather than just a few bad insiders. Behaviorism focuses on how behavior is learned and reinforced within the environment, which can influence conduct but isn’t specifically about whether corruption is confined to a few individuals. The use of force model deals with policing tactics and the use of force, not with corruption.

So the best fit is the view that corruption is limited and caused by bad apples entering the department.