Some theorists suggest that there is a police culture which can override individual characteristics and encourage
officers to adhere to police code. In this module we examined research that explores what creates this dynamic
and how it is sustained. Additionally, we explored how individual biases can be enhanced or marginalized in this
type of subculture.
News stories of deadly police-citizen encounters (often involving racial minorities) are ubiquitous in the news.
According to Spencer, Charbonneau, and Glaser (2016), discrimination is prevalent in policing and implicit bias
influences behavior.
This activity will give you the opportunity to explore implicit bias and its impact on policing.
To prepare for this discussion activity, read the following:
Spencer, K. B., Charbonneau, A. K., & Glaser, J. (2016). Implicit Bias and policing (Links to an external site.);t
Links to an external site. }-. Social & Personality Psychology Compass, 10(1), 50-63. doi:10.1111/spc3.12210
According to the authors, how does implicit bias influence judgment and behaviors?
Can the authors’ posit about race-weapon association be applied to explain some of the high profile police use
of force incidents (i.e. Walter Scott, Michael Brown, Philando Castile, Charles Kinsey)? Do you agree or
disagree?
The authors’ make a number of individual and agency interventions to address Implicit Bias. Do you think that
any of these strategies show promise? Why or why not?
Sample Solution