To Protect and Serve: Reconsidering Influences of the Decision to Pursue a Critical Career Field

Abstract

Considerable research has explored personality characteristics in connection to law enforcement personnel, yielding valuable insights into the nature of individuals who choose to serve. Theoretical arguments over whether one is drawn to such a career or one changes as a result of the work have yielded inconsistent findings, though, and in an age of reduced policing workforces and ever-changing demands on law enforcement, it is necessary to revisit what motivates certain individuals choose this career. This study uses data from the Add Health project to explore policing careers motivated by personality characteristics, psychological insights, and social influences, such as prior work experiences, familial history, and educational status. Results indicate desire to solve problems serves as a motivator to pursue law enforcement and imply that positive self-perceptions may also increase career choice. These findings open inquiry into new possibilities for recruitment planning, training, and strategic evolution of service roles.