Reassessing the impact of race on citizens' attitudes toward the police: A research note

Abstract

This paper reassesses the relationship between race and attitudes toward the police. Using data obtained through a telephone interview survey of 560 residents of Detroit, the study contradicts previous research by finding that blacks hold more favorable attitudes toward the police than do whites. To explain these findings, we argue that as the social context of cities changes, so might the relationship between race and citizens' attitudes toward the police. This research was particularly supported by Grant 89-DD-CX-0049 from the National Institute of Justice. Points of view are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the position of the U.S. Department of Justice. The authors are grateful for the comments and suggestions of the anonymous JQ referees. This research was particularly supported by Grant 89-DD-CX-0049 from the National Institute of Justice. Points of view are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the position of the U.S. Department of Justice. The authors are grateful for the comments and suggestions of the anonymous JQ referees. Notes This research was particularly supported by Grant 89-DD-CX-0049 from the National Institute of Justice. Points of view are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the position of the U.S. Department of Justice. The authors are grateful for the comments and suggestions of the anonymous JQ referees.