“POLICE DON'T LIKE BLACK PEOPLE”: AFRICAN‐AMERICAN YOUNG MEN'S ACCUMULATED POLICE EXPERIENCES*

TLDR

Improving police image in minority communities is crucial for enhancing citizen trust and satisfaction. The study aims to guide police organizations in creating complaint review processes that are both accessible and confidence‑building for citizens. The authors surveyed 40 African‑American young men about their direct and vicarious police harassment and violence experiences to assess their impact on police perceptions. Findings show that comprehensive, nuanced measures of police encounters reveal the significant impact of accumulated adverse experiences on perceptions. The results have implications for police oversight policies.

Abstract

Research Summary This study examined 40 African‐American young men's direct and vicarious experiences with police harassment and violence, and their impact on perceptions of police. Study findings highlight the value of using comprehensive and nuanced measures of police/citizen encounters and underscore the importance of examining the impact of accumulated adverse experiences. Policy Implications The findings have implications for police oversight policies. In particular, police organizations should work toward developing complaint review processes that are not merely accessible to citizens but also inspire confidence among them. These efforts are crucial toward improving the image of police in minority communities and positively impacting citizen trust of, and satisfaction with, the police.