Exploratory-descriptive analysis of the public image of the police
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Date
2014
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Publisher
University of Zululand
Abstract
Prior to 1994, South Africa was ruled by an authoritarian government known for its repressive policing methods which was replaced by a democratic, non-paramilitary police system, the South African Police Service (SAPS). Policing in both post-communist (Poland, Lithuania, Hungary, etc.) and post-apartheid societies managed to successfully ‘escape’ from chaotic transitional environments but still suffer similar concerns in terms of police legitimacy, police use of deadly force, accountability, etc. Over the past twenty years, the police image suffered severe criticism because of police involvement in serious crimes like murder, assault, corruption, armed robbery, etc. Inefficiency in dealing with crime and a lack of deterrent measures to prevent crime and the fear of crime are some of regular accusations against the police. Television watching, personal observation or experience about the manner in which the police perform their duty and newspapers are the most important image-forming sources. Although rated favourably, respondents’ perceptions of the true justification of the police appears to be misplaced in favour of the juridical basis and an over-emphasis of reactive policing. A deep-seated obligation to prevent crime is observable among respondents: they do not view policing as a threat to their personal freedom and privacy, and are willing to assist the police in preventing crime.
Short-term police functions are rated more important than long-term police functions. Police characteristics during contact sessions with the public indicate arrogance, aggressiveness, abuse of power and authority, brutality and corruption. Non-reporting of crime emanates from negative attitudes and apathy of police officers. Public expectations of improved service delivery are necessary to enhance communication and improving their image. Police officers should be encouraged to change and accept the values of democratic policing.
Description
A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Arts in fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Magister Artium in the Department of Criminal Justice at the University Of Zululand, 2014
Keywords
police --policing --police image --opinions --perceptions --attitudes