Ethnography Paper

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Communication in the police culture is made up of many codes and acronyms so that messages during situations can be sent and received in a short and simple way (Erickson). People may think that the reason why cops have these codes is so messages are kept private from the public but in truth, it’s simpler and concise to just talk in codes especially during dangerous or fast paced calls (“Police Scanner Codes”). Another reason for these codes is so the officer can have their complete focus on the task at hand (“Police Scanner Codes”). Their interactions with fellow officers should be as brief as possible so they can remain engaged with whatever they are dealing with (“Police Scanner Codes”). For new recruits or those who are outside of law enforcement culture see this like it is a different language and is usually overwhelmed (Erickson). Although, just like any language, it’s good to immerse yourself into the environment where the language is being spoken.

Overall, at the end of the day, a police officer’s job is to protect those who are innocent, put away those who are guilty and make the community a better place for the citizens. Being a police officer gives you the power and authority over the public which is why training teaches police ethics so they know how to control and use that power on duty (“Police Officer Academy Training”). When a police officer is challenged, they have that authority to control the situation and do was is right with good judgment (Erickson). It can be very rewarding as a police officer after all that hard work and effort of earning the respect and position you are at (Erickson). Learning about this culture is very interesting and informing to those who don’t know how police culture runs and what they are all about.

Works Cited

"Discover Policing." Police Recruit Training and Academy Summary - Discover Policing.

N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2016.

"Police Officer Academy Training." Law Enforcement Jobs. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2016.

"Police Scanner Codes." Police Scanner Codes. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2016.

Wetendorf, Diane. "The Brotherhood." Police Culture, Brotherhood, Code of Silence: Police Officer Involved Domestic Violence | Abuse of Power | Diane Wetendorf Inc. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2016.

Erickson, Dallas. Personal interview. 21 Nov. 2016.