Police Officer Perceptions of the Effectiveness of Domestic Violence Response

• In Event: Police Officers, Schools, and Domestic Violence

Abstract

As first-responders to domestic violence calls, police officers are in a unique position to inform our understanding of law enforcement response to domestic violence. Through exploratory, in-depth interviews, this study explores police perceptions of the effectiveness of arrest as a solution for addressing domestic violence. In addition, themes related to perceived challenges and limitations of the current criminal justice response to domestic violence are discussed. This research informs our knowledge of police officer perceptions and serves as a basis for further understanding the decision-making process in cases of domestic violence, as well as exploring alternative approaches to improve response for survivors and their families.

Author

• Anjali Fulambarker, University of Illinois at Chicago