NCJ Number
75053
Date Published
1979
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article applies Maslow's motivational theory (i.e., that motivation is based on a hierarchy of satisfied needs, such as for security and physical well-being) to police performance.
Abstract
Maslow arranges human needs into a motivational hierarchy and claims that a move up the hierarchy can be accomplished only as needs lower down are satisfied. The lowest needs are physiological, including a need to interact with the environment. For a police officer, this need can remain unmet because of long duty hours devoted to sitting and waiting. The second level of needs are for security and safety in the future, fulfillment of which police officers cannot count on. Chronic hostile and aggressive behavior while on duty is often a sign that these needs are unmet. The need to belong occurs next in the hierarchy and is especially strong among policemen. However, weak police leadership sabotages a sense of belonging, and the pressure to conform inhibits officers' ability to be open with their colleagues. After officers have become accepted, they need to feel recognized, achieved through self-esteem, the good opinion of others, and feeling useful. Feeling unrecognized can lead to attention-getting behavior, cynicism, and poor motivation. The final need level and the most difficult to reach is self-actualization. Self-actualized police work at capacity, are constantly using their talents, and expend much energy. Characteristics of the self-actualized include high self-esteem, confidence, a great concern for the world, independence, and respect for others. Two references and a list of supplemental readings are included. Two class exercises are also provided.