"The Role of School-Based Law Enforcement Officers in Student Disciplin" by Marlaina Mahler

Date of Conferral

1-27-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Jerrod Brown

Abstract

An increase in police presence in schools has led to an increase in research covering school police. The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate the overall role of SBLE officers, specifically their role in student discipline. This narrative inquiry study answered two research questions about the narrative experiences of SBLE officers as law enforcers, educators, and mentors in Texas public schools and how might Texas SBLE officers’ lived experiences benefit their peers’ understanding of their role regarding student discipline. Role theory and role conflict theory were used as the theoretical foundation. Data were collected through interviews with ten participants. A two-cycle coding system was used for data analysis. This study found that in addition to being law enforcers, educators, and mentors, the key roles of Texas SBLE officers include communication and collaboration. This study found that SBLE officers respond to student misconduct both informally as hall monitors and formally only when students violate criminal codes. Additionally, they serve as a resource to administrators in deciding if school sanctions or legal action would be best when responding to students who violate criminal codes. Future research should include comparing Texas school resource officers and SBLE officers to determine if there is a difference in role or effectiveness at reducing student misconduct. The results of this study could be used to improve training for school police focused on their unique role within law enforcement. The results can improve public understanding and opinion of SBLE officers.

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