Doing Research on, for and with Police in Canada and Switzerland: Practical and Methodological Insights

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter focuses on policing research, distinguishing among research conducted on, for or with the police and addresses various stages of the research process considered sensitive or crucial. For researchers, police organisations are fascinating subjects, albeit challenging to access and sometimes reluctant to scientific input. From access to the fieldwork and dissemination of findings, several challenges can arise, including those that are administrative, methodological, ethical or emotional. Anecdotes, guidelines and avenues for reflection are formulated to guide researchers in conducting applied research in policing. Although policing is a rich source for criminological studies, police science and applied research remain underexploited. Police and academia need to understand and accept each other’s competencies, resources and contributions.