NCJ Number
81227
Date Published
1971
Length
165 pages
Annotation
This study analyzes test scores of 622 fail applicants and 520 pass applicants who took an examination for patrolman in New Jersey between February and June 1970, with attention to background, attitude, and personality characteristics that differentiate the two groups.
Abstract
Applicants who took the civil service examination for patrolman volunteered to take additional tests prepared by the Educational Testing Service, thus providing data for this research. A police background information form collected information on applicants' educational and occupational history, military service, marital status, personal history, health, history of traffic violations, religious affiliation, and nationality. Participants also completed a police knowledge test, a police opinion questionnaire, and an instrument designed to measure reactions to situations which a patrol officer might encounter on or off duty. The pass applicant tended to have a higher educational level and lower unemployment rate than the fail applicant, as well as being white, more mobile, and less religious. According to the police knowledge test results, pass applicants displayed a more liberal attitude toward minorities, particularly Spanish Americans, and had a fairly realistic view of the job of patrolman. Individuals who passed were also more aware of the discretionary nature of many police decisions and the importance of teamwork. Answers to the police opinion questionnaire portrayed the pass candidate as more rational, reasonable, and understanding than the individual who fails. Responses to 11 problem situations indicated that pass candidates generally preferred solutions that were reasonable and not extreme. This study could provide baseline data for an evaluation of police academy training and officer effectiveness. Tables summarizes responses to test items.