The Psychological Costs of Filing a Complaint Against the Police

• In Event: Mental Health, Public Safety, and Police Professionalism

Abstract

Filing a complaint against police officers represents a civilian-initiated external accountability method designed to point out law enforcement misconduct. Much is known about who files complaints and why people might complain, but few studies examine how police departments (un)intentionally dissuade civilians from filing a complaint. Using administrative burden theory as a guide, this study examines police department websites for unique psychological costs that may affect a civilian’s likelihood of filing a complaint. Theoretical and policy implications are also discussed.

Author

• Zachary Powell, California State University, San Bernardino