The 1965 Watts riots in Los Angeles demonstrated the usefulness of psychologists in providing human relations training, crisis intervention skill programs, and stress management training to police departments. Another development with psychological relevance occurred when New York City police began arriving at a crime scene while the perpetrators were involved in hostage negotiations. LEAA discretionary grants in the 1970's opened another avenue for police department psychologists, namely pre-employment screening of police applicants. Psychologists also assist with criminal profiling and provide interview techniques for victims and witnesses. Other areas of psychological involvement include programs for officers involved in excessive force complaints, counseling for officers exposed to communicable diseases, and management consultation and organizational development. In an era of increasing violence and uncertainty, also marked by potential changes in traditional methods of selecting and training police officers, the psychologist's role in policing can only expand. 8 references