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Police subculture is a complex array of standard procedures and values that govern the activities of law enforcement officers in relation to their contractual responsibilities. It plays a significant role in shaping the behavior and attitudes of police officers as they carry out their duties. This research paper explores the impact of police subculture on the body of the law and its relationship to crime. It delves into the unique values, beliefs, and psychological factors that define police subculture, examines its influence on officers' interactions with the public, and discusses the implications of this subculture on society as a whole.
Police officers often find themselves in highly stressful situations, making their profession one of the most demanding and challenging in the world.
The stress and constant exposure to hostile individuals in society necessitate the development of coping mechanisms and distinct approaches to handling unique scenarios. Police subculture, in this context, emerges as a response to the psychological demands of the job.
Adler, Mueller, and Laufer (1994) define police subculture as a "set of norms and values that govern police behavior, brought about by stressful working conditions plus daily interaction with an often hostile public." This definition underscores the critical role of stress and constant exposure to potentially dangerous situations in shaping the subculture within law enforcement.
One of the fundamental aspects of police subculture is the concept of insiders and outsiders.
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Police officers are consistently reminded of their role as protectors of peace and order, which, paradoxically, can lead to a sense of alienation from the general public.
This separation deepens over time, contributing to the development of a distinct identity within the police community.
Another significant factor that reinforces the influence of police subculture is the societal distrust and resentment directed toward police officers. The public's negative perceptions and accusations of corruption further isolate officers and drive them to seek validation from their peers, strengthening the cohesion of the subculture (Cooper, 2000).
Police subculture profoundly influences the attitudes and behaviors of officers. It molds their character and personality, shaping their perspective on the world around them. One of the most striking effects of this subculture is the transformation of police officers into individuals who view the general public as potential criminals or suspects.
This view is rooted in the insider/outsider principle, which exacerbates the separation between police officers and the public. The subculture perpetuates a sense of "us versus them," wherein officers perceive civilians as threats to be monitored and controlled (Violanti, 1995).
The culture of violence is another hallmark of police subculture. Officers are exposed to a subculture of violence, often encountering death and brutality on a regular basis. The average citizen rarely witnesses the level of death and violence that a police officer experiences in a short period. This exposure to violence contributes to desensitization and can impact officers' reactions in high-pressure situations (Violanti, 1995).
Dr. James Fyfe, a prominent figure in law enforcement education, identified key issues related to police subculture. He noted that the subculture's emphasis on officers as soldiers in the "war on crime" can lead to frustration and anger. The realization that this war may be unwinnable contributes to officers' emotional challenges (Jackson, 1992).
Police subculture is also linked to issues of prejudice within law enforcement. Recent incidents of police brutality highlight racial bias among officers. The subculture's influence can lead to discriminatory behavior, particularly when dealing with minorities or women who challenge police authority.
Women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals can face significant prejudice within the police force. These biases stem from the perception that certain groups lack the attributes traditionally associated with policing, such as courage, bravery, and loyalty. This can create a hostile work environment and affect the treatment of marginalized communities by law enforcement officers (Kirschman, 1997).
Furthermore, cases of domestic violence involving police officers raise concerns about the subculture's impact on personal relationships. Some officers who exhibit aggressive behavior in their professional lives may carry that aggression into their homes, resulting in domestic abuse allegations (Kirschman, 1997).
Addressing the negative aspects of police subculture requires a concerted effort to bring about change within law enforcement agencies. Police departments should prioritize training and education programs that promote empathy, diversity, and community-oriented policing. Efforts should be made to reduce the culture of violence and desensitization among officers.
Additionally, fostering a sense of accountability and transparency within police departments can help rebuild trust with the public. Implementing body cameras and independent oversight mechanisms can contribute to greater transparency in police interactions.
Efforts should also be made to recruit a more diverse group of officers to better reflect the communities they serve. Promoting a culture of inclusion and tolerance within police departments can help reduce biases and prejudices.
In conclusion, police subculture plays a significant role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of law enforcement officers. It is influenced by the unique demands and stresses of police work, leading to the development of distinct values and beliefs within the police community. This subculture can contribute to issues such as prejudice, violence, and a sense of alienation from the public.
Efforts to address these issues and promote positive change within law enforcement agencies are essential. Building trust between police officers and the communities they serve, while fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, can help mitigate the negative impact of police subculture on both the body of the law and society as a whole.
Impact of Police Subculture on Law and Society. (2016, Mar 01). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/police-subculture-essay
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