Policing as a Profession: A Critical Examination

Policing as a Profession: A Critical Examination

The question of whether policing should be considered a profession or not is a matter of ongoing debate and analysis. While some argue that policing possesses the necessary characteristics to be classified as a profession, others believe that it falls short in meeting certain criteria. In this essay, we will explore the criteria used to evaluate professions and critically examine whether policing meets these standards.

To determine whether policing can be considered a profession, it is essential to establish the criteria commonly used to define a profession. Four key elements are often used to evaluate professional status: specialized knowledge, formal education and training, autonomy, and a code of ethics.

Specialized Knowledge

One criterion for a profession is the requirement of specialized knowledge. Professions typically demand a substantial body of knowledge that is not easily attainable by the general public. While policing does require specific knowledge related to law, criminal justice, and community dynamics, the level of expertise required may vary depending on the jurisdiction. In some cases, police officers may be required to possess a degree in criminal justice or a related field. However, in other instances, the educational requirements may be less stringent.

Formal Education and Training

Another aspect often associated with professions is the attainment of formal education and training. Professions typically require individuals to undergo rigorous education and training programs to develop the necessary skills and competencies. While some police departments have implemented formal educational requirements, such as associate or bachelor’s degrees, many still rely heavily on academy training and on-the-job learning. The variation in educational requirements across different jurisdictions raises questions regarding the consistency and standardization of training in the field of policing.

Autonomy

Autonomy refers to the degree of independence and decision-making authority granted to professionals within their respective fields. Professions are characterized by a level of autonomy that allows practitioners to exercise judgment and make decisions based on their expertise. In policing, officers often operate under strict regulations, policies, and hierarchies. Their actions are subject to scrutiny and oversight by supervisors and the legal system. While individual officers may have some discretion in certain situations, their autonomy is constrained by departmental guidelines and legal boundaries.

Code of Ethics

A code of ethics is a fundamental component of any recognized profession. It outlines the ethical principles and standards that professionals should adhere to in their practice. Policing does have a code of ethics that emphasizes core values such as integrity, impartiality, and respect for human rights. However, the extent to which these ethical standards are consistently upheld across all police departments and individual officers can vary greatly.

Considering these criteria, it is evident that policing exhibits some characteristics of a profession but falls short in meeting all the established criteria universally. The lack of consistent educational requirements and variations in training programs prevent policing from achieving a uniform standard of professionalization. Additionally, limited autonomy and external oversight further challenge its classification as a fully autonomous profession.

In conclusion, while policing shares several similarities with recognized professions such as law, medicine, and accounting, it falls short in meeting all the criteria commonly associated with professional status. The lack of consistent educational requirements, limited autonomy, and variations in ethical standards across police departments undermine its claim as a fully-fledged profession. As society continues to evolve, it is crucial for stakeholders in criminal justice to engage in ongoing discussions about the professionalization of policing and work towards enhancing its standards across all aspects.

References:

Lersch, K. M., & Mieczkowski, T. (2014). Professionalization through education? The case of policing. Journal of Criminal Justice Education, 25(2), 155-174.
Reiner, R. (2010). The politics of the police. Oxford University Press.
Skolnick, J., & Fyfe, J. (1993). Above the law: Police and the excessive use of force. Simon and Schuster.
Van Maanen, J., & Reiss Jr, A. J. (1983). The slippery slope: Getting serious about police corruption. Social Problems, 30(4), 387-397.