Learning the Perceptions of Police as Held by Generation Z

Abstract

This current research provides an introductory exploration of the perceptions of police as held by members of Generation Z. Within, we briefly review perception development, some unique features of Generation Z, and study how Generation Z’s features and perceptions may influence police practices and dialogue within communities. We discovered the population surveyed has a largely positive view of police; which holds significant importance to the authority and legitimacy of police services. However, we also find relationships between police and Generation Z minority populations has room for improvement. INTRODUCTION This research is simply an introductory exploration into the perceptions of police as held by members of Generation Z. The goal of this research is not meant to be a far-reaching explanation; instead it is meant to start the conversation and further inquiry into Generation Z’s views of police. In starting this project, we find a considerable amount of information concerning perceptions, development of perceptions, and generational studies already exists. We didn’t need to expand on this, or go into great detail on the history of perceptions or generations, because it is readily available and didn’t add to the purpose of this research. On the other hand, we did find information concerning Generation Z’s perception about police are just beginning to emerge, and this does need to be expanded upon. Hence, this is the purpose of our research. It is meant to humbly expand our understanding of how Generation Z views police and the consequences potentially associated with those views, or in other words, those perceptions. In the following pages we will briefly highlight how perceptions are developed through life for primary background knowledge, introduce the importance of perceptions on police performance and how that informs interaction with citizens, consider features uniquely