Examination of Organizational and Individual Factors that Influence Police Response to Domestic Disturbances

• NCJ Number: 106005
• Journal: Journal of Police Science and Administration Volume: 15 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1987) Pages: 93-104
• Author(s): M G Breci; R L Simons
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

A survey of 242 line officers from 4 law enforcement agencies was conducted to examine the influence of police organizational and individual factors on police response to domestic disturbances.

Abstract

Organizational variables accounted for 17 percent of the variance in law enforcement response (e.g., arrest) and 19 percent of the variance in service (e.g., help) response. Training (police and from outside sources) was a strong predictor of response for both law enforcement and service orientations. Department role, likewise, was a strong predictor of both role orientations, indicating that officers accept departmental guidelines. Surprisingly, response showed an inverse relation to administrative orientation. Individual variables explained 40 percent of the law enforcement response and 47 percent of the service response. Attitudes, values, and perceptions played a major role in how officers responded. In addition, these variables were influenced by peers, education, police experience, and sex. 1 table and 6 figures.