NCJ Number
82783
Date Published
1981
Length
86 pages
Annotation
This report focuses on the state of the art in law enforcement personnel selection throughout the country for the purpose of developing a more suitable selection system for the State of Alaska.
Abstract
The research approach involved an extensive review of the literature, mail questionnaires, and telephone surveys of law enforcement departments in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Authorities on the subject of police selection were also consulted. Findings reveal that departments are making changes in their selection practices in an effort to bring selection criteria more closely in line with actual job responsibilities. Although the written test has been criticized for lack of validity, it remains in use by nearly all departments. In both oral interview and psychological screening stages, some departments are incorporating the use of situational tests and simulation exercises to observe an applicant's behavior. The physical agility tests are being redesigned to shift focus from exercises of strength to physical exercises more representative of actual police duties. It is concluded that the oral interview board is the best method around which other methods can be designed to provide supplemental data. Oral boards should be sequenced so that members can review results from background investigations. About 100 references, 58 footnotes, and 9 appendixes are included.