Police Attitudes Toward Utilization of Civilian Employees

• NCJ Number: 88966
• Author(s): W Sukchotrat
• Date Published: 1983
• Length: 190 pages
• Sale Source: UMI Dissertation Services
• Publication Type: Thesis/Dissertation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. Florida State University - doctoral dissertation

Annotation

Patrol officers from police departments in Jacksonville and Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., had more positive attitudes toward their work when civilian utilization in their departments was increased.

Abstract

These attitudes were more positive toward public perception of the police, job satisfaction, budgetary savings, and efficacy regarding delivery of public services. The sample included 181 patrol officers. The Sukchotrat Police Attitudes Toward Civilian Employment Scale (SPACE) was used to measure the relationship between police attitudes and the use of civilians in nonpolice functions. The study hypothesized that an increase in job satisfaction would follow a reduction in role conflict. The younger and highly educated officers were in favor of employing more civilians to work in police departments. The dissertation also reviews the literature on civilian employment in police departments in Europe and the United States, discusses role theory and conflict, police role conflict and its consequences, and the research methodology. Tables, diagrams, figures, and about 115 references are included. Study instruments are appended. (Author summary modified)