Examining police perceptions of challenges in policing adolescents: a comparative analysis across rank, role, and tenure

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study addressed the need for improved police training in the context of police-community relations, with a specific focus on interactions with youth. Data were collected from active police across the US to understand their perceptions of adolescents and identify training needs. We examined the impact of police roles (e.g. patrol, command) on their descriptions of adolescents, challenges policing adolescents, and training requirements. Findings reveal that police working as school resource officers (SROs) had a more positive view of adolescents and expressed interest in acquiring specific skills for effective interactions. Commanders viewed policing skills as challenging, whereas others viewed adolescent attributes as most challenging in police-adolescent encounters. Experience did not significantly influence police perceptions; beliefs remained consistent across veteran and less experienced police. Findings underscore the necessity for new training protocols for all law enforcement personnel, regardless of tenure, to mitigate negative and potentially harmful police-adolescent interactions.