The primary purpose of this dissertation is to identify superior, "High Reputational" nursing home/housing administrators to determine if and how they differ from others not so identified. The others are called "Typical". The study tests the predictive validity of a testing instrument in discriminating between the groups.

High Reputational administrators of not-for-profit facilities were identified through peer nominations. Typicals were randomly selected. The test and a questionnaire largely devoted to achievements were administered in personal interviews at facilities. Because of the small sample size, 9 High Reputationals and 14 Typicals, non-parametric tests are used. Descriptive statistics highlight group differences and results of the testing instrument. In this study, qualitative methods are useful in assessing approaches to management and variables affecting achievements.

The High Reputationals appear to be an identifiable group whose achievements are more numerous and impressive than the Typicals. They express comprehensive, "systems" approaches, emphasize participative management, team development, expansion, and program development. The reputational approach appears valid. The test instrument did not discriminate between the groups or appear able to identify good administrators. High Reputationals' self-effectiveness ratings are higher than the self-effectiveness ratings of Typicals. Using constant comparative analysis, a third group called "Substantial Achievers" appears to emerge from the Typicals. Based on achievements, they appear to have the potential to become like those in the High Reputational group.

It is concluded that the testing instrument is not supported as a criterion for selection of administrators. Achievements, managerial approaches, and educational backgrounds noted in this study might prove useful to boards charged with hiring an administrator. An additional conclusion is that social workers, not well-represented in the sample, may need encouragement to enter the field of nursing home/housing administration. Schools of social work could better prepare these administrators with applicable management courses. More research is needed to explore the practices of High Reputational administrators to improve the knowledge base of the profession. Substantial Achievers would also be suitable subjects for further study of characteristics potentially leading to High Reputational status.