initiatives as designated police discussion forums or press conferences. An effective
working alliance between the media and law enforcement could allow for even
more effective crime reduction, prevention, and justice.Suggestions for Future ResearchResearch examining the relation between the public and their view of police is
surprisingly minimal. Given the amount of attention to police-oriented television
shows and detective and true crime novels on bestseller lists as well as portrayals of
police and law enforcement in movies, little has been documented on the dynamics
of public perceptions of law enforcement. High-profile cases in the media regarding
police practices and the inconsistencies or shortcomings of their work are almost
always scrutinized by analysts and the public. However, restitution of these attitudes
and portrayals of law enforcement are often neglected due to a lack of scientific
understanding of how these systems interface. Research examining these interacting
systems is clearly needed.
Further research can examine the effects that solved cases have on public con-
fidence in law enforcement. Also, the effects of police interaction with the public,
such as those in which local police departments organize charitable events, are
yet to be analyzed. Research examining individual differences between police de-
partments is sparse, and what research does exist points to inconclusive findings
regarding the publics perceptions of various styles of police department operations.
It: is clear that law enforcement is a large part of both popular culture and is under
the constant eye of scrutiny. The public's perception of law enforcement is no doubt
influenced by the mass media's interpretation of police and criminal justice events,
Therefore, all people who are not in regular contact with police systems form their
opinions of law enforcement based on a media filter. The public is forced to make
individual decisions based on media presentations. Consequently, individuals may
be swayed in the direction that the media filter portrays events related to criminal
justice. It is not only necessary to understand that these interactions take place,
but that examining criminal justice and law enforcement through unfiltered eyes
is difficult, albeit necessary, in order to gain a full understanding of the criminal
justice system.
EXPLORING THE POLICE PERSONALITY
IntroductionPolice officers hold a position that is replete with stress and responsibility. These
officers face dangerous situations, aggressive suspects, and agitated citizens. Line
officers must comply with their supervisors and uphold the law. These individuals