NCJ Number
98002
Journal
Journal of Police Science and Administration Volume: 13 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1985) Pages: 98-105
Date Published
1985
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the literature on the training of women managers, surveys the perceived training needs of female and male candidates for sergeant positions at the San Francisco Police Department, and makes recommendations about the effective development of women sergeants.
Abstract
A review of the literature indicates that sex role socialization, organizationl support, and training structure must be considered in assessing the needs of potential women managers. Sex role considerations focus on how male and female socialization impedes women's performance as managers or positive perceptions of their performance. Studies cite numerous indications that perceptions of women managers can be enhanced with support from higher ranking administrators. Surveys of male and female managers indicate that their training needs are similar and that they should be trained together. Results of a questionnaire sent in February 1983 to 842 patrol officers and 98 inspectors in the San Francisco Police Department who were eligible to become sergeants are reported. The questionnaire was designed to assess the respondents' perceptions of the training they would like if they were to become sergeants. Completed questionnaires were received from 131 patrol officers and 12 inspectors. Data indicate substantial similarities in the training desires of male and female officers, as well as some significant differences in self-perceptions and expectations. Women specified lower evaluations of their competency levels and some fears regarding the consequences of women being promoted to sergeant positions. Sergeant's training should be designed to build confidence in all personnel, but particularly in women. Three tables and 29 references are included.