NCJ Number
93295
Date Published
1984
Length
188 pages
Annotation
Written for law enforcement officers and students in training to become law enforcement officers, this manual explains basic communications concepts and skills and emphasizes that communication training is the central factor in effective human relations for law enforcement.
Abstract
Using the information theory model of communication, the manual notes that meanings are not in words but are in the ways listeners perceive messages. The relationship between attitudes and behavior, the use of reinforcement in human interaction, and the application of reinforcement to police work are also discussed. Guidelines on the role of relationships in communication explain differences in various types of relationships and the basic skills of empathy, accuracy, and overcoming defensiveness. Nonverbal communication through appearance, body movements, the use of space, time, voice tones, touching, and sense of smell are also described. The relationships to communication of role concepts and changes that have occurred in American society in recent years are also explored. Specific advice is also given on dealing with conflicts, interviewing, relationships with militant and dissident groups, and communications with members of minority groups. The guidelines also cover effective community relations programs for police agencies and public speaking techniques. Recommended reading lists for each chapter, an index, and a bibliography listing 56 references are included.