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                            Library & Multimedia
 Us Versus Them? The Problem of Cognitive Distortions in Policing
NCJ Number
              308641
Journal

*Police Quarterly* Volume: OnlineFirst Dated: February 2024
Author(s)
          Scott E. Wolfe;
                        Kyle Mclean;
                        Jeff Rojek
Date Published

February 2024
Annotation
              This paper discusses the methodology and outcomes of two studies aimed at determining how much one cognitive distortion among police officers was associated with problematic orientations about use of force and citizen interactions.
Abstract
              The literature on cognitive distortions offers insight on why we continue to face reform challenges regarding police use-of-force- and citizen interaction-related outcomes. The authors used two studies of police officers to determine the extent to which one cognitive distortion (dichotomous thinking) was associated with problematic orientations about use of force and citizen interactions. In Study 1, they found that dichotomous thinking was associated with weaker support for de-escalation, procedural justice, and maintaining self-control during hypothetical citizen interactions. Dichotomous thinking also was associated with more support for force-related misconduct. Study 2 showed that officers who engaged in dichotomous thinking were more likely to perceive an immediate and serious threat from watching suspects in body-worn camera videos. Also, they were more likely to believe suspects had greater ability, opportunity, and intent to cause harm. The authors discuss the practical implications of these findings for policing and police reform. (Published Abstract Provided).
      
  
          Additional Details
Grant Number(s)
        2016-IJ-CX-0018


  
  
        
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        NIJ-Sponsored


  
  
        
  Publication Type
        Research (Applied/Empirical)


  
  
        
  Award
        An Evaluation of a Social Interaction Training Program to Reduce the Use of Force and BuildLegitimacy
    
  
  
Date Published: February 1, 2024
    
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