FOR60360 - Introduction to Police Psychology and the Culture of Law Enforcement

(3 units)

This foundational course provides an introduction to the field of police psychology and to the structure and culture of law enforcement organizations. The first half of the course focuses on an overview of law enforcement organizations and police culture. This includes the nature of hierarchical paramilitary organizations and the ways in which individuals working in them are impacted, including differences between sworn and civilian employees. The concepts of legal authority and “police powers” are presented along with the psychological burden this places on police officers. The course covers different police and deputy sheriff roles, including patrol, corrections and court services, investigations, traffic, and special assignments such as school police, SWAT, and gang suppression. Police culture is emphasized through an examination of common strategies used in recruiting, hiring, and training new officers, as well as practices associated with supervision, promotions, and discipline. The second half of the course focuses on the roles of police psychologists in law enforcement organizations. This overview explores the history of police psychology, presents various opportunities for mental health professionals to work in the field of police psychology, examines the different formats of police psychological services, and explains the many challenges faced by police psychologists.