Ethnic Police Officers

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, while white male officers continue to form the majority population of the British police force, the hiring patterns over the past years have brought many women, blacks, Hispanics and Asians onto the police forces. Each of these groups brings with it a variety of cultural traits that become police sub-cultures. The author points out that today's leaders believe the composition of the police force and the police workshops should reflect the ethnic diversity of Britain which will enable the constabularies to offer a more sensitive service to the minority ethnic groups, to foster a positive view of the context within which the members of these groups are positioned and to improve the quality of their relationships with them. The paper relates that the Self-Categorization theory, a social psychological theory developed by John Turner and colleagues, states that at different times, a person perceives him or herself as a unique individual and, at other times, as a member of various groups and all of which are equally valid expressions of self: The degree to which a person defines him or herself is both flexible and antagonistic.

From the Paper:

"When looking at the concept of organizational culture among police officers, many paradoxes arise. Existing literature focuses mainly on police deviance caused by the existence of cultural traits. Many organizations spend a great deal of time and effort to encourage these same traits in their members. For instance, solidarity among the "rank and file" is seen as the primary reason for police deviant conduct. However, solidarity also provides the basis for exemplary organizational cooperation and teamwork in addition, many police take great pride in the mission of police work, due to its uniqueness and potential to make a difference. At the same time, organizationally, police tend to isolate themselves from their communities, often becoming arrogant and consumed with maintaining the organization for the sake of the force."

More papers on Ethnic Police Officers:

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• Essay # 27516 : "Community Policing"

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