Perceptions of a Policing Career Among Twenty-First Century Youth

Abstract

To-date relatively little research has explored the perceptions that influence young peoples' interest in policing as a career. This study examined if perceptions of policing are interconnected with desire to be an officer. Overall, the results were inconclusive; however, it was determined that young people interested in a policing career hold moderately accurate perceptions of policing with regards to the application and hiring process, officer salary, the daily tasks performed by officers, and issues of gender. But, these young people have a limited understanding of longstanding issues of race/ethnic discrimination within policing. The implications of this research undertaking for policing organizations and academics are discussed.