NCJ Number
148577
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 34 Issue: 2 Dated: (Spring 1994) Pages: 192-203
Date Published
1994
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Using interview data transcribed from original interviews with 36 gay, lesbian, or bisexual British police officers, either currently serving or retired, this study considers the deviance value of a homosexual orientation within the police organization and conducts a preliminary assessment of its impact on individual police officers.
Abstract
The findings suggest that the discrepant status of homosexuality in law, the machismo subculture of the police, and the police role as regulators of deviance make it difficult for the police to adopt or accept a nonconformist orientation in the ranks. The study also examined the status of lesbianism in relation to police subculture. Findings indicate that the experiences of women as "deviant" in this regard may not be analogous to those of their male colleagues. Many of the officers interviewed live "double" as opposed to "integrated" lives as a result of their homosexuality. The stress caused by leading a secretive private life may be detrimental to the mental health of gay and lesbian police officers. This may in turn affect their ability to perform their work effectively and to establish stable or satisfying personal relationships with other police personnel. 44 references