NCJ Number
161264
Journal
Police Studies Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1995) Pages: 23-43
Date Published
1995
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article discusses how to achieve change in both police attitudes and practice in relating to culturally diverse groups through the use of training and education for police officers.
Abstract
Continuing professional development is not a panacea for all police-community problems. It can, however, create improved understanding, heightened awareness, and new tools of behavior that assist in achieving the change desired. This discussion considers the influence of social, cultural, and legal systems on the relationship between the police and diverse groups; issues that affect relations between the police and diverse groups; and continuing professional development as a change agent. In discussing the latter topic, the author advises that when undertaking the design and provision of continuing professional development programs for police, there are many components to consider. Chief among them is the nature, origin, and implication of how prejudice and discriminatory practices by the police affect relationships with minorities. Determination of existing problems and concerns must be followed with proposals to bring about positive change. Underlying the proposals in this article is the belief that carefully developed, academically sound, and adequately focused continued professional development programs will be the catalyst to improve relations between police and the diverse groups in the community they serve. 43 references and appended topical areas for a police diversity continuing professional development course and examples of structured experiences