ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˈt(y)üshən ə lˌizəm, ̷ ̷ˈt(y)ü-, -shnəˌli- noun
( -s )
1. : adherence to, upholding of, or acceptance of established institutions (as of society or religion) : belief in or dependence on that which is sanctified and given authority as an institution
exhibiting an excessive conventionalism and institutionalism in religion
2.
a. : a policy or theory favoring extended use of public institutions (as for defectives and criminals) ; also : such use of public institutions
with declining family solidarity institutionalism became increasingly important in the care of the sick, the unwanted, the aged
b. : the characteristics (as regimentation, standardization, and impersonality) that are associated with institutional life
there was no institutionalism about this happy home
3.
a. : the doctrines and teachings of institutional economics
b. : a theory that regards the establishment and maintenance of institutions (as for education, charity, and social activities) as an essential function of a church