Gender differences in policing: reasons for optimism?

Abstract

PurposeThis exploratory study compared job demands, work attitudes and outcomes, social resources and indicators of burnout and psychological health of male and female police officers in Norway.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 173 male and 48 female police officers using anonymous questionnaires.FindingsMany demographic differences were present in that male officers were older, had longer organizational and job tenure, worked more hours and overtime hours, were more likely to work full‐time, worked in smaller units and were at higher organizational levels. Few differences were found on job demands but male officers experienced more autonomy.Research limitations/implicationsThe two groups were generally similar on work attitudes, work and career satisfactions, social resources and psychological health. Female police officers did indicate more psychosomatic symptoms, however. While other studies have reported gender differences, few appeared here.Originality/valueThis research indicates that police forces can create a work environment where males and females are treated similarly.