Reading Assignment for Section 5.3

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 5.3: The Police Subculture

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll explore the concept of police culture and how it shapes officers’ identities, behaviors, and decision-making. You’ll examine the influence of organizational structure and historical factors on the development of police culture, including attitudes toward force and community relationships. Finally, you’ll analyze the role of training and socialization in shaping recruits’ values and propose strategies to create a positive police culture that emphasizes professionalism, accountability, and community trust.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 5.3

• SLO 1: Explain the concept of police culture and describe how it influences officers’ identities, behaviors, and decision-making processes.
• SLO 2: Analyze the organizational structure of police departments and assess how this structure supports or shapes the culture and goals of the organization.
• SLO 3: Evaluate the impact of historical and societal factors on the development of police culture, including attitudes toward use of force and community relationships.
• SLO 4: Discuss the process of socialization in police departments, including the role of training and field training officers in shaping recruits’ values and behaviors.
• SLO 5: Propose strategies for creating a positive police culture, including defining core values, promoting professionalism, and encouraging accountability and community involvement.