An analysis of such interactions requires a complex analytic framework that is sensitive to the interplay of formal organizational rules, local variants of the occupational culture, and the officers' own experience. The recommended approach holds on one side the macro-level, sociopolitical forces which may impinge on police-public interactions by, for example, changes in the political economy of police resources arising from public pressure, changes in law, and changes in the political sensitivities and projects of politicians. It holds on the other side the micro-level factors of officer socialization into the police culture and the means by which officers validate performance of their distinctive work, as well as the occupational and personal experiences of individual officers. As the length of service increases, the influence of formal training recedes and officers develop personal styles and skills for dealing with various citizen encounters. 15 references.