Juveniles' Attitudes Toward the Police 43the need for a coordinated response is imperative after first understanding the reasons
that compel youths to join gangs.Suggestions for Future ResearchVery little research exists regarding the role of forensic psychologists working with
at-risk youths or juvenile gang members. As more comprehensive programs are
implemented, including prevention and rehabilitation components, comparative
studies need to be undertaken to test their effectiveness. For example, which con-
flict resolution or mediation strategies best enable these youths to nonaggressively
manage conflict? What types and durations of psychological services are the most
effective? Research examining the effects of various psychoeducational and recre-
ational programs are needed. In addition, the effects of involving families and siblings
in the psychological interventions of at-risk youths should be investigated. Once
programs are in place, arrest records, school dropout rates, and other forms of acting
out can be monitored to determine the effectiveness of the various services being
offered to the youths.
Research regarding the attitudes and perceptions that the police hold about
juvenile gangs is almost nonexistent. As gangs become greater in number and in-
creasingly violent, the effect that working with this volatile population has on police
officers is a vital concern. Their perceived threat of danger and the demeanor of
gang members can greatly impact officers' interactions with these youths as well
as the direction of antigang tactics. Additionally, the levels of stress and its effects
on officers who work in gang units is an area in need of examination. Finally, as
Claudio Ceja's case demonstrates, more effective means to identify juvenile gang
members should be continually explored.
JUVENILES' ATTITUDES TOWARD THE POLICE
Introduction
Juveniles' attitudes toward the police develop as a result of numerous influences in
their lives. Although police officers are frequently the primary contact that adoles-
cents have with the legal system, these experiences are only a small part of what
forms their views of police officers. They learn about law enforcement from their
parents, their peers, their community, the educational system, the media, and from
personal contacts with the police. These attitudes are likely to have a large impact
on the choices they make throughout their lives, especially as young people.
i )evon is a 15-year-old African-American male who is currently living in permanent
foster care, awaiting the arrival of his 18th birthday so that he may have the freedom to