This research looked at the impact a police officer’s manner has in road policing interactions. Seven video clips were filmed, all from the driver’s perspective, showing an officer using different manners while issuing a speed infringement notice. The video clips were then shown to groups of Lions Club members, students, prisoners and police recruits. Prior to seeing any of the scenes, and at the completion of each one, participants completed two rating scales. The results clearly indicate that quite small changes in an officer’s manner have a marked impact on the way the manner is perceived and how people are left feeling about the officer. The implications for police officers involved in roadside interaction and police training are also outlined. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E214057. Printed volume contains peer-reviewed papers. CD-ROM contains submitted papers.
Abstract