NCJ Number
168987
Journal
Justice Quarterly Volume: 14 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1997) Pages: 53-85
Date Published
1997
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This study examined the effects of race and gender on patterns of interpersonal interaction in a police patrol bureau, as well as the organizational structural devices and cultural underpinnings that work together to obstruct the integration of women and blacks into the bureau.
Abstract
Qualitative research methods, including field observations and in-depth interviews, were used to generate empirical and attitudinal data from patrol officers in a midwestern police department. Field observations consisted of on-site observations and participant observations, including patrol unit ride-alongs. The interviews used a 29-item instrument designed to solicit information on demographics, the police patrol culture, and patterns of interaction. Findings show the gender and racial integration of the bureau failed despite various organizational structural devices to "level the playing field" and implement integration. No one single structural, political, or individual characteristic or condition appeared to be a decisive cause of the lack of integration. Instead, races and genders were divided by features of organizational life, such as tensions, conflicts, and intraorganizational feuding about affirmative action, dual promotion lists, the decision-making process related to job assignments, police leagues in the department, and the presence of women in patrol. 4 tables and 61 references