NCJ Number
150141
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 61 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1994) Pages: 19-22
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Seven skills are described that police facilitators must develop for the effective implementation of innovative approaches to problem-oriented policing.
Abstract
Facilitators communicate their roles with the group; define group members' roles; and assist the group in establishing norms, procedures, and goals. Facilitators also recognize their own power in relation to the group and remain objective and unbiased during meetings. In addition, they challenge unproductive interactions, observe the group content and process, intervene only when needed, and point out incongruities. Moreover, they avoid taking sides, let the group make its own decisions within appropriate frameworks, keep the group on track, and model appropriate behavior. Examples of the use of these skills in the police agency of Santa Ana, California.