NCJ Number
72143
Date Published
1976
Length
212 pages
Annotation
Results are reported from a study that compared the backgrounds and attitudes of Jewish police officers with non-Jewish officers in New York City.
Abstract
Information was obtained from a random sample of 300 Jewish and 300 non-Jewish New York City police officers--50 from each of the six ranks. The questionnaire included the following topics: economic, social, and educational background; career aspirations; rank distribution; achievements; conception and evaluation of police work; attitudes on contemporary public issues, such as welfare, integration, public housing, and education; political orientation and affiliation; and attitudes toward other ethnic, religious, and racial groups. Specific reference to religious identity was included in an examination of synagogue affiliation; religious education for officers and their families; and attitudes toward intermarriage, anti-Semitism, and Israel. The study also attempted to determine whether Jewish officers have a distinctive attitude toward police corruption. Results showed no significant differences between Jewish and non-Jewish officers in social, educational, and economic background. The groups were also alike in showing generally low motivation to achieve higher rank and education. The conservatism of Jewish police officers was more pronounced than the non-Jewish officers, notably in the areas of welfare, integration, and public housing. Non-Jewish officers tended to be more involved in the practice of their professed religion, although Jewish officers were more resistant to their children marrying outside their faith. No difference was shown in the group's sensitivity to police corruption. The questionnaire is appended. Tabular data, footnotes, and over 80 references are provided. (Author abstract modified)