Developing a Behavioural Science Intervention: Addressing Sexism and Misogyny in Policing Through a Pulse Check Approach

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Abstract

This article presents the development of an intervention designed to address sexism and misogyny within policing by leveraging a behavioral science approach. The intervention, known as the "pulse check," employs short, frequent surveys administered to police officers and staff to systematically feedback organizational culture. Team-specific results are provided to supervisors with the aim to empower supervisors to address cultural issues within their teams. Grounded in the COM-B model, the pulse check intervention focuses on enhancing supervisors' capacity, motivation, and opportunity to address cultural problems. It achieves this by increasing awareness of cultural dynamics, both negative and positive, on their teams. Additionally, it seeks to elevate motivation by instilling a heightened sense of responsibility and accountability in supervisors for addressing cultural challenges. Moreover, the intervention aims to augment the opportunity to act by providing supervisors with regular reminders and prompts to take action. This article outlines the development process of the pulse check and concludes with insights gleaned from a feasibility test, shedding light on the acceptability and practicality of implementation of the pulse check. The results offer valuable implications for the broader application of behavioural science interventions to address and mitigate issues of sexism and misogyny within law enforcement agencies.

Authors

• Katharine Boyd, University of Exeter

• Esther Flanagan, College of Policing