Practical Issues in the Use of Personality Tests in Police Selection

Abstract

Publication of meta-analyses concluding that conscientiousness predicts performance has increased the use of personality tests in police officer selection batteries. In this study, we argue that it is not always appropriate to blindly apply these meta-analytic findings in practice. Criteria for inclusion into meta-analyses for practical purposes are presented, as well as results of a meta-analysis based on these criteria. The results showed conscientiousness was neither an effective nor consistent predictor of law enforcement performance. Practitioners are cautioned against believing that there is good evidence that conscientiousness scales predict law enforcement job performance.