Research and reform in community policing

Abstract

Examines the opportunities provided by problem‐oriented community policing to combine research with reform. Advocates the involvement of workers as researchers in this action research. Points out that outcomes which at first appear to be negative can be a tool for change, e.g., an increase in client callbacks after family crisis intervention was an indication of the improved image of police as service‐providers, rather than failure by police to reduce crises. Considers ways of establishing evaluation criteria. Explains the value of exploratory action research whereby the object of the exercise is revised as the data is being gathered. Lists the desiderata for participatory action research.