| Abstract: | Police professionalism is a term that has seen wide usage in recent years. However, much confusion has been generated by the
distinct and often contradictory usages of the concept. This paper attempts to clarify the concept by examining three competing
conceptualizations which have been most frequently subscribed to. Criminal justice researchers have followed sociologists,
operational zing professionalism through application of the dimensional approach. Fundamental problems with this approach
are discussed as well as specific problems with its’ application to the police. Given the conceptual problems which have plagued
the concept of police professionalism, recommendations for future research are made. |
