The quality of management within a police organization determines whether the organization is successful, and the best law enforcement agencies view the first-line supervisor as an integral part of the management team. It is acknowledged, however, that first-line supervisors apply management skills differently than higher-ranking police managers. Problems faced by police agencies can be resolved if managers become conversant with the elements of organizational behavior. Behavioral theory and case studies are applied to help current or potential police department supervisors identify and resolve personal and organizational problems. Details are provided on the supervision process itself, interpersonal communication, motivation, leadership, discipline, performance appraisal, team building, coping with organizational change, media relations, internal discipline, labor relations, the supervision of minorities, and police training. 336 references, 71 figures.