NCJ Number
168477
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 25 Issue: 2 Dated: 1997 Pages: 87-101
Date Published
1997
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This research provides a typology of police patrol conflict-dispute resolution processes/methodologies for addressing social interaction disputes (public disputes, community-based disputes, and interpersonal disputes); it also proposes a theoretical framework that underlies the pragmatic application of the focal conflict-dispute resolution processes.
Abstract
Content analysis was the primary methodology used in this research. Secondary analysis was also used. The data reanalyzed were obtained through the author's participant observation (police ride-alongs and walk-alongs) pursuant to field research in Cleveland, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Smithfield, N.C. Additionally, much of the participant observation material was collected in connection with the author's duties as a uniformed patrol police officer. The findings show how many alternative forms of conflict-dispute resolution (i.e., mediation) available to patrol officers are consistent with the pragmatic realities of policing. Police officers, for example, can improve their effectiveness in achieving police patrol objectives by becoming skilled in mediation and problem-directed policing. Many police encounters are amenable to resolution through nonconventional conflict/dispute resolution methodologies. Uniformed patrol police officers are capable of becoming skilled conflict/dispute resolution professionals by using these methods. They can fulfill this role if instructed in specific methodologies and how to manage conflict situations professionally. 35 notes and 19 references