Introduction to Policing Research: Taking Lessons from Practice

This book provides a comprehensive overview of policing research, including its diverse nature, ethical challenges, and practical considerations. It covers various topics such as research methods, professionalization, diversity, leadership, undercover policing, vulnerability, activist research, social media, and international perspectives. It is an essential resource for students, researchers, and practitioners in the field of Professional Policing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 342 pages
Publication date: 05 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book provides a deep dive into the world of policing scholars and the groundbreaking research they undertake. Drawing together a diverse array of esteemed scholars, it explores a wide range of pressing topics, unveiling the multifaceted nature of policing research and the ethical and practical challenges faced by these researchers.

In each chapter, the authors shed light on the concept of empirical research within the realm of policing, offering insightful explanations and assumptions that underpin the rationalization of research design. They also critically examine the limitations of such research, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive understanding of the field.

The book covers a wide range of topics, including:

Research Methods in Police Research: This chapter delves into the various research methods employed in police research, such as surveys, interviews, observations, and case studies. It explores the strengths and limitations of each method and provides practical guidance for conducting effective research in this context.

Police Professionalization: The authors examine the process of professionalization within the police force, exploring how it has impacted the role of police officers, their training, and their interactions with the community. They discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with professionalization and its implications for policing practices.

Police and Diversity: This chapter explores the complex relationship between the police and diverse communities, including issues of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality. It examines the historical and contemporary experiences of marginalized groups and the role of the police in promoting equity and social justice.

Police Leadership: The authors examine the critical role of police leadership in shaping the culture, behavior, and effectiveness of the police force. They discuss the qualities and skills required for effective leadership and the challenges faced by police leaders in maintaining public trust and addressing complex social issues.

Undercover Policing: This chapter explores the controversial practice of undercover policing, examining its ethical implications and its impact on both the police and the communities they serve. It discusses the challenges of maintaining confidentiality, balancing the interests of the police and the public, and ensuring that undercover officers do not violate the rights of individuals.

Police and Vulnerability: The authors examine the vulnerability of individuals and communities to crime and the role of the police in protecting and supporting these vulnerable groups. They discuss the challenges of responding to incidents of violence, abuse, and exploitation and the importance of building trust and rapport with vulnerable populations.

Activist Research: This chapter explores the role of activists and community organizations in policing research, highlighting the importance of collaboration and partnership between researchers and these stakeholders. It discusses the challenges and opportunities of engaging with activists and community organizations and the potential for transformative research outcomes.

Social Media and Policing: The authors examine the impact of social media on policing practices and the challenges and opportunities it presents. They discuss the use of social media by police departments for surveillance, communication, and community engagement and the ethical considerations associated with such practices.

In addition to these core topics, the revised and expanded new edition of this book includes a greater focus on the role of research in policing, police and academic partnerships, and practitioners as researchers. It also includes a brand new section offering international perspectives on policing research, providing a global lens to understanding the field.

Packed with practical examples, case studies, key learning points, and practical advice, this book is an essential resource for Professional Policing students, early-career researchers, and anyone engaged with criminological research methods. It serves as a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of policing research and advancing our understanding of this critical field.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032232515
Edition number: 2 ed