Research on police performance has clearly shown that male and female police officers are comparable in their performance and that females are perceived by the public as equally effective, except in the handling of violent or confrontational situations. However, sex role stereotypes remain a major barrier to women seeking law enforcement careers. Actions that would overcome these barriers would include increased training focusing on physical training and self-defense, the use of role playing of responses to violent confrontation, more rigorous supervision of backup officers, sensitivity training to modify the male-oriented environment of the police department, commitment by top management, and affirmative action programs with formal goals and guidelines. Notes and 78 references