Self Control and Police Misconduct

  The study conducted by Donner, Fridell, and Jennings (2016) aimed to explore the relationship between self-control and police misconduct. They examined how individual differences in self-control, as measured by Gottfredson and Hirschi’s (1990) general theory of crime, influenced the likelihood of engaging in misconduct among police officers. Gottfredson and Hirschi’s general theory of crime proposes that low self-control is a key factor in explaining criminal behavior. They argue that individuals with low self-control are more prone to engage in impulsive and risky behaviors, including criminal acts. This theory suggests that self-control is a stable trait developed early in life and remains consistent throughout an individual’s lifespan. Building upon this theory, Donner, Fridell, and Jennings hypothesized that police officers with low self-control would be more likely to engage in misconduct due to their propensity for impulsive behaviors. They conducted a survey among police officers to assess their levels of self-control and documented instances of misconduct within the police department. The findings of the study supported their hypothesis. The researchers found a significant association between low self-control and police misconduct. Officers with lower levels of self-control were more likely to engage in various forms of misconduct, including excessive use of force, corruption, and abuse of authority. The study’s findings have important implications for understanding the factors contributing to police misconduct. They suggest that individual differences in self-control play a crucial role in shaping police officers’ behavior and decision-making. It highlights the importance of selecting individuals with high levels of self-control for law enforcement positions to mitigate the risks of misconduct. Additionally, this study contributes to the broader understanding of self-control theory and its applicability to different contexts, including police misconduct. By examining the relationship between self-control and misconduct among police officers, it provides empirical evidence supporting Gottfredson and Hirschi’s general theory of crime. In conclusion, the study conducted by Donner, Fridell, and Jennings (2016) demonstrated a significant relationship between self-control and police misconduct. The findings align with Gottfredson and Hirschi’s general theory of crime, suggesting that low self-control is a risk factor for engaging in misconduct among police officers. Understanding these dynamics can inform efforts to prevent and address misconduct within law enforcement organizations.

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