Police Violence Perception and the Effects of Interviewer Race

• In Event: Poster Session: Public Opinion & Ideas, Knowledge and Politics
  In Poster Session: Poster Session: Public Opinion

Abstract

Although survey centers aim to reduce interviewer bias and standardize surveys, interviewers are not blank slates, and may conduct interviews in such a way as to unintentionally tip off a respondent to their demographics or beliefs. When a respondent is aware, either consciously or subconsciously of a respondent’s identity, the respondent may change how he or she interacts with the survey (Campbell, 1981; Cotter, Cohen, and Coulter, 1982). In a poll conducted in Duval County, Florida, residents were asked about their perceptions of the local sheriff’s office and feelings regarding personal safety. Initial findings indicate that, when presented with questions regarding police brutality, white respondents are more likely to identify a greater likelihood of being victimized by the police when being interviewed by a black interviewer as opposed to a white interviewer. Additionally, black respondents questioned about overall safety of the city tend to say they have greater perceived feelings of safety when speaking with a white interviewer as oppose to a black interviewer. Depending upon the demographic make-up of the interviewers, survey results and ensuing policy choices can be dramatically affected.

Authors

• Charlene Stainfield

• Michael Binder, University of North Florida