Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Dr. James S. Herndon

Abstract

AbstractThe purpose of this transcendental phenomenological research was to describe the lived experiences of investigative civilian review board (CRB) members. The central research question of the study examined the lived experiences of investigative civilian review board members as it related to recruitment and selection, training, and support. Eight participants from two CRBs in the Northeast and Midwest formed a random sample of six females and two males. Three data collection instruments were used in this research (in-depth interviews, writing prompts, and personal narratives) to elicit information. The instruments were designed to prompt information about CRB members' experiences based on the concept of procedural justice related explicitly to transparency, fairness, and equity. A transcendental phenomenological analysis consisting of interview transcription and the development of codes, categories, and themes resulted in four main themes and ten subthemes. The main themes were motivation, inconsistency, expectations, and hope. The research results contributed to an increased understanding of the recruitment and selection process to become an investigative CRB member and the training and support board members received while serving. The results of the research were consistent with existing research. It also expanded on the desire of the investigative CRB members to improve recruitment, training, and support along with police and community relations. The result of this research could improve current positive social change through CRBs and other accountability bodies as they seek to enhance fair practices of accountability and oversight while improving relationships with law enforcement and the community and supporting positive social change.

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