NCJ Number
192002
Journal
Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Dated: Spring 2001 Pages: 20-28
Date Published
2001
Length
9 pages
Annotation
A survey of 95 police agencies sought to determine the extent of the use of psychological profiles and whether and how these profiles are helpful.
Abstract
The questionnaire contained 14 questions regarding the agency characteristics, the kinds of investigations in which the agency used profiles, the success of the profile in helping the participant to reach five different goals, and the usefulness of certain characteristics typically included in psychological profiles. The survey also asked each participant to list the three most useful characteristics currently included in profiles, as well as features that should be added to profiles. Each agency received two surveys; some made multiple copies. Forty-six agencies returned the surveys; 68 police officers responded. Results indicated that 63 percent of the agencies used profiles in criminal investigations. The police agencies used profiles mainly in cases of rape and homicide. In addition, police officers regarded psychological profiles as an effective tool to guide interrogations of suspects and to guide the criminal investigation, but not necessarily to identify the suspect. Tables and 3 references (Author abstract modified)