Identify and explain the four styles of policing associated with Wilson. In addition, note the types of police officers identified by Broderick

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Traditionally, the literature concerning styles of policing has been derived from Wilson. One
style is that of the "crime fighter" or "cowboy" who views himself primarily as a serious investigator of
crime. Another is the "social agent" who has a broader concept of an officer's role. This individual
views policing as a combination of crime control, order maintenance, and the providing of services, but
views law enforcement duties as a small part of one's duties. The "enforcer" or "Iegalist" style" is
somewhat similar to the "crime fighter" in that he or she tends to emphasize crime control, but differs
from the "crime fighter" by having the view that all laws should be enforced. A fourth type of policing
noted by Wilson is that of the "watchman" style of policing which puts a premium on preserving order
and stability within a community.

Like Wilson, Broderick suggests that police officers can be found in four different categories.
However, he focuses on their personality types. He views "enforcers" as officers who see their duty to
keep the streets clean and protect the "good people" from the "bad people." Broderick would describe
them as authoritarian. Another of his categories is that of the "idealists" who see themselves as
professionals. He believes that sometimes these "idealists" become frustrated with the criminal justice
system and later seek other careers. A third type cited by Broderick is the "realist" who tends to
become cynical and dissatisfied with society. "Optimists" come into another category and are those
who view themselves as service providers performing an important function for society.