Community–Police Dialogues: Evaluating the Effects on Adult, Youth, and Police Participants

Abstract

Abstract Improving the relationship between the police and the public is a major focus of American police agencies. Community–police dialogues represent a potential avenue to facilitate positive interactions and promote the four pillars of procedural justice (voice, neutrality, respect, and impartiality). Recent funding has allowed one agency to host six community–police dialogues (three with adult community members and three with youth community members). These events allow citizens to participate in a community building circle with police to build community and discuss various concerns relevant to their city. Using pre- and post-test data from dialogue participants, the current study seeks to determine the effects of the community–police dialogue on community perceptions of voice, trust, respect, and empathy towards their police department. Following participation, community members reported a greater willingness to work with police to improve relationships, greater trust and respect towards police officers, and a greater awareness of the challenges faced by police officers. Some key differences emerged depending on the age group of the participant. Similarly, police officers reported higher levels of respect for and trust in the community and greater feelings of respect from residents. These findings highlight the potential for dialogue events to promote procedural justice and enhance community partnerships, especially for youth community members.