A Problem-oriented Approach to Preventing Sex Discrimination in Police Recruitment

Abstract

This paper examines the utility of applying situational crime prevention measures to sex discrimination problems in police recruitment. Discrimination against disadvantaged groups such as women is now a "crime." In some jurisdictions, the offence extends to lack of active support for women. Traditional masculinised characteristics of police departments put them at risk for this type of offending, and a variety of courts have found police departments guilty of discrimination. To address the problem, a situationally oriented, problem-based approach is needed that builds on discrimination-reduction strategies that have already shown some success. The examples of pre-entry physical ability tests, firearms handling tests and interviews are used to illustrate the benefits of highly specific modifications in selection processes.