Representation Is Not Enough: Symbolic Representation and Perceptions of the Police

Abstract

Representation in government tends to improve clients’ outcomes, but often has not done so for Black police clients. Representation may have perceptual effects on Black clients separate from its ability to influence outcomes. This mixed-methods research examines representation’s effects on Blacks’ perceptions of police. Representation did not seem to improve perceptions. Results led to a consideration of why representation was not effective. Qualitative analysis revealed that some Black police clients see Black officers as more like White officers than themselves. Participants came to understand that representation did not improve outcomes and adjusted their perceptions of Black officers.