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Community experiences with police and implications for public health: A focus group study

Author

Listed:
  • Moutasem A Zakkar
  • Se Lim Jang
  • Fariba Kolahdooz
  • Sarah Deck
  • Christina Gillies
  • Adrian Wagg
  • Sangita Sharma
Abstract
Interactions with the police can impact an individual’s short and long-term physical, mental, and social wellbeing, as well as levels of violence and unrest within a community. As such, this study aimed to explore experiences with the police among individuals experiencing socioeconomic disadvantages in Edmonton, Canada. For this qualitative study, participants (n = 39) were recruited from an emergency shelter for women, a drop-in community organization supporting individuals experiencing socioeconomic disadvantages, and a centre providing settlement support for newcomers to Canada. During the recruitment process, the research information sheet, including the scope and goals of the study, was presented, and participants who had any experience with the police were recruited. Each participant joined one of seven focus groups, during which experiences with the police were discussed; data from the focus groups were analyzed utilizing thematic analysis. Factors that contributed to satisfactory experiences with the police included the police demonstrating responsiveness and compassion, as well as an individual’s understanding of police work. Factors that contributed to unsatisfactory experiences included the experiences of discrimination, stigmatization, and disrespect during interactions with the police. Participants suggested that community-police relationships could be improved by police being less judgemental and suspicious in their approach, undergoing regular training in sociocultural sensitivity, and being more open in their communication and community outreach. Overall, adopting a less discriminatory and more empathetic approach within a police force is essential for creating and maintaining a positive community-police relationship. By considering the socioeconomic context of people’s behaviours and actions, police can better support the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.

Suggested Citation

  • Moutasem A Zakkar & Se Lim Jang & Fariba Kolahdooz & Sarah Deck & Christina Gillies & Adrian Wagg & Sangita Sharma, 2024. "Community experiences with police and implications for public health: A focus group study," PLOS Global Public Health, Public Library of Science, vol. 4(6), pages 1-19, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pgph00:0003123
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003123
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Johnston, David W. & Lordan, Grace, 2012. "Discrimination makes me sick! An examination of the discrimination–health relationship," Journal of Health Economics, Elsevier, vol. 31(1), pages 99-111.
    2. Benjamin Saunders & Julius Sim & Tom Kingstone & Shula Baker & Jackie Waterfield & Bernadette Bartlam & Heather Burroughs & Clare Jinks, 2018. "Saturation in qualitative research: exploring its conceptualization and operationalization," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 52(4), pages 1893-1907, July.
    3. Lee, Hoon & Vaughn, Michael S. & Lim, Hyeyoung, 2014. "The impact of neighborhood crime levels on police use of force: An examination at micro and meso levels," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 42(6), pages 491-499.
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