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Cultural Sensitivity Training (From Multicultural Perspectives in Criminal Justice and Criminology, P 347-383, 1994, James E. Hendricks and Bryan Byers, eds. - See NCJ-160016)

NCJ Number
160028
Author(s)
S M Hennessy
Date Published
1994
Length
37 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses the need for police departments to implement effective cultural sensitivity training programs for officers.
Abstract
The goals of these programs, developed within the context of community policing, should be to emphasize the importance of power and image in maintaining a professional reputation for police forces; understand the contributions and life styles of the various racial and ethnic groups that comprise a community; recognize and deal with individual biases, discrimination, and prejudice; and respect diversity and personal rights. This chapter summarizes general characteristics of traditional Hispanic cultures, traditional Asian cultures, and traditional African-American cultures. Research into the cognitive learning styles of police personnel should be incorporated into planning for sensitivity training sessions. Some of the issues that should be raised in these sessions involve power and the status quo. This chapter discusses training methodologies and logistics, and provides sample exercises and case studies. 21 references