Date of Conferral

11-29-2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Susan Marcus

Abstract

Media attention on the fatal use of force by law enforcement personnel has worsened the divide amongst the police and minority communities, intensifying the lack of confidence between groups. Further research is called for to understand how the fatal use of force by law enforcement is influenced by officer race, suspect race, and characteristics of the alleged crime. Implicit bias theory and procedural justice theory were used as theoretical and conceptual frameworks. The three research questions examined the extent to which characteristics of the officer, characteristics of the alleged perpetrator, and circumstances of the homicide predicted (a) perpetrator mental illness, (b) presence of a weapon, and (c) attempt to flee. The hypotheses were tested using logistic regression analysis. The results indicated that victims of homicide who showed signs of mental illness were more likely to be Latino, older, and showed signs of a weapon. Victims of homicide who were in the presence of a weapon were more likely to be male, with a confirmed presence of a weapon, and killed by a White officer. Further, victims of homicide who attempted to flee were more likely to be younger, male, and had a confirmed presence of a weapon. It is hoped that the results of this study will contribute to positive social change by better understanding the factors that are associated with fatal police encounters and excessive use of force. The results of this effort may encourage executives of law enforcement agencies to implement clear procedures for use of force and training for effective response to possible threats when officers arrive at a crime scene.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

 
COinS