No significant differences were reported by religion or sex of subject on rules restricting the signaling of intimacy with a police officer. Regarding rules concerning avoidance of conflict, a main effect was reported for religion of subject, with Protestants endorsing these rules to a greater extent than their Catholic counterparts. No main effects or significant interactions were found for rules involving exchange of reward or self presentation on the basis of the variables. Differing rule endorsements concerning conflict suggest that interactions between police officers and members of the two denominational groups differ because of different sets of expectations held by group members. Because these expectations are quickly noted, they lead to rapid deterioration or improvement in the quality of the interaction. The findings suggest that the reciprocal nature of such interactions leads to difficult relationships between the police and minority groups in Northern Ireland. 2 tables, 2 appendixes, 4 references. (Publisher abstract modified)