Applications of Social Psychology in Police-community Relations

• NCJ Number: 75167
• Author(s): N Wollman
• Date Published: 1977
• Length: 23 pages
• Sale Source: Eric Document Reproduction Service
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. Revision of a paper presented at the annual meeting of the Society of Police and Criminal Psychology, November, 1977, Nashville, Tennessee.

Annotation

Social psychology principles are used to suggest ways for improving police-community relations.

Abstract

Interpersonal attraction (attitudes toward others) and helping behavior (assisting others) within the broader context of attitude change are examined. Laboratory and field studies reveal a number of factors which influence interpersonal attraction, including similarity of traits and attitudes, frequency of contact reciprocal liking, and physical attractiveness. These results suggest that police are more likely to elicit positive attitudes from citizens if they first demonstrate positive attitudes toward citizens and provide the services citizens desire. Frequent interaction with citizens in noncontrolling roles where police reveal themselves as having feelings and problems similar to other citizens is also suggested as a means of improving police-community relations. Several factors mediate cooperative and helping behavior from citizens, including the desire to fulfill moral norms, particular moods, rewards, and models. The practical application of these factors to the eliciting of citizen help for police is discussed. Examples of various types of police-community relations programs developed in various cities are provided. Thorough planning is advised for determining how social psychology principles can best be applied in particular situations. References are provided. (ERIC abstract modified)