NCJ Number
192158
Date Published
2001
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper describes a number of processes that have been associated with violence against others and more specifically the use of "unnecessary force" by police and other security service agents and agencies; and it suggests a variety of approaches to minimize such behaviors as well as to maximize and to reinforce desirable and needed "democratic policing."
Abstract
Police officers and others who work in the broad field of security are sometimes required to use force. This is the starting point for the possibility of the development of the use of more force. When individuals use force, especially excessive force, they must justify it somehow. One way to justify it is to devalue the victim. This is facilitated by imputing great strength and power to the "identified victim" by demonizing him/her, so as to justify excessive force as required for self-defense. Such an escalation and rationalization for the use of excessive force must be challenged by police managers and supervisors at every level. This involves making clear statements, instituting appropriate training, and invoking disciplinary mechanisms to ensure that police officers know where to draw the line in the use of force. In reducing the use of unnecessary force by police officers, it is essential to set standards, set rules of conduct, and create accountability. Accountability must be both internal and external. It is particularly important that police agencies and their managers be aware of the devaluation of specific groups of people within the value system of the police subculture. Such devaluation increases the likelihood that unnecessary force will be used by police against these devalued groups. Training in cultural awareness and interpersonal relationships can help to undermine such devaluations. Further, police involvement in positive relationships with community members can help to deflate false police impressions of particular groups in the community. 1 reference