NCJ Number
208037
Date Published
September 2004
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study examined Slovenian youths' perceptions of private security work in that country.
Abstract
Paralleling Slovenia's significant progress in establishing a market economy has been an increase in the employment of private security personnel; however, very little is known about how the public perceives agents of private policing and their role in crime prevention. In an effort to fill this knowledge gap, this study examined any differences between criminal justice and noncriminal justice college students' perception of private security work, goals, professionalism, and role in crime prevention activities. Out of 600 questionnaires distributed to students attending a large university in Slovenia in the spring semester of 2004, 509 useable questionnaires were returned. Half of all those who responded were criminal justice majors, and 67 percent of the respondents were females. Overall, the students did not have a positive view of security officers and their work. Although they recognized that security officers may help their clients, they were not viewed as serving the needs of the general public. Still, students favored security officers being able to use force in the course of their work for clients. The students did not view security officers as professional, as skilled in security planning, or as well educated. Respondents did not perceive security work as inherently stressful or dangerous. These opinions were similar for both criminal justice and noncriminal justice majors. 5 tables and 5 references