The Triangle of Recruitment, Selection, and Training in 21st Century Policing

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing on over two decades of studying and researching police recruitment, selection, and training, a correlation of the three prongs to professional policing in a democratic society is established.

Methodology/approach

The author overviews the current approaches to professional policing through an analysis of a statement made by a legendary chief of police August Vollmer, who is credited with the inception of the era of “professional policing.”

Findings

The transition from a young adult and inexperienced adult into a life-and-death decision maker needs to take into consideration a host of characteristics identified by Vollmer. These characteristics cannot be found nor honed within the current recruitment, selection, and training practices of American police departments.

Originality/value

This chapter provides an analysis of the required skills and characteristics necessary to hone and develop a professional police officer in a democratic society.

Citation

Haberfeld, M. (2016), "The Triangle of Recruitment, Selection, and Training in 21st Century Policing", The Politics of Policing: Between Force and Legitimacy (Sociology of Crime, Law and Deviance, Vol. 21), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 295-313. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1521-613620160000021016