NCJ Number
199813
Date Published
2003
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This article examines those factors that have limited the implementation of problem-oriented policing, obstacles faced on an organizational level, and obstacles faced by front-line officers influencing their problem-solving efforts.
Abstract
Problem-oriented policing’s widespread adoption has received wide appeal among senior officers; however, its implementation is seen as piecemeal in extent. The widespread adoption of problem-oriented policing requires dramatic and fundamental change in both the organizational focus of police and the way in which day to day policing is performed. In this paper obstacles to the implementation of problem-oriented policing are discussed and divided into two groups: (1) problem orientation obstacles on an organizational level or organizational factors and (2) obstacles that influence problem-solving efforts or front-line factors. Solutions for these obstacles are discussed, each directly addressing one of the stated obstacles with a potential “diffusion of benefits,” thereby weakening other obstacles. Themes that emerged include: (1) police officers will not devote much energy to activities they do not consider important and (2) effective communication will mitigate many of the obstacles that have infected other problem-oriented policing projects. For problem-oriented policing to be truly implemented throughout an organization, senior officers must be psychologically committed to substantive change and develop a comprehensive communication strategy to supplement the coming changes. References