Social Learning and the “Dirty Harrys” of Law Enforcement

• In Event: Student Panel: Police Misconduct, Perceptions, and Factors for Recruitment

Abstract

Police deviance has been a consistent issue in law enforcement departments. According to Stoddard (1968), two approaches could explain this issue: the individual and group approaches. The individual approach states that the particular officer was already deviant before joining the department and that the screenings failed to alert the employers. The group approach emphasizes that deviant behavior is cultivated within the group. In this presentation, I will provide an assessment in support of the group approach. I rely on Akers’ Social Learning Theory to explain how police deviance is cultivated within groups as a result of learned behaviors.
Additionally, this presentation will connect the informal police deviance to the “Dirty Harry” officers. According to Klockars (1980), the Dirty Harry problem is an issue that is occurring in law enforcement. This presentation will explain how the “Dirty Harrys” are more covert than overt in their practices. Potential solutions to prevent or lessen police deviance will be discussed.

Author

• George Garza, Texas State University