Elevating Professional Standards: De-normalizing the Use of Profanity in Police Work
In law enforcement, communication plays a crucial role in every aspect of police work, from building community trust to managing high-stress situations. It's no secret that the use of the “f word” and other profanity has become ingrained in some corners of police culture. Whether in casual conversations or during the intense moments of a chase or arrest, profanity slips out frequently, often without a second thought. It's time for police leadership to take a stand and de-normalize the use of such language in their departments. There are no other client-facing and/or public service professions with the same laissez-faire supervisory response (or supervisory use) of profanity.?
Why It Matters
The use of profanity will tarnish the image of a police department, eroding public trust and undermining the professionalism that officers work hard to maintain. In an era where every action and word can be recorded and scrutinized, it's more important than ever for officers to present themselves in the best possible light because every local police interaction becomes a national police event through the lens of social media. By eliminating the use of profanity, departments can demonstrate a commitment to higher professional standards and foster a more respectful and constructive environment for both officers and the communities they serve.
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De-normalizing the use of profanity begins with recognition, discussion and training. Police academies and ongoing professional development programs must emphasize the importance of effective, respectful communication. Globally, I’ve never encountered a training program where profanity was presented as a part of the curriculum or research that has suggested it to be effective in bolstering commands or driving suspect’s behaviors. Officers should be provided with tools and techniques to manage stress and de-escalate situations without resorting to profanity; this includes training in emotional intelligence, stress management and communication skills.
Leadership's Role
Leadership sets the tone for the entire department. Agency leaders must lead by example, consistently using professional language and holding their teams accountable. By making it clear that the use of profanity is unacceptable and holding employees accountable, leaders can create a culture of respect and professionalism that permeates all levels of the department.
Complex Investigations Governance | Insurance Claims Recovery | Controls Remediation | Expert Testimony | Host of the Fraud Eats Strategy Podcast
1 个月Really interesting point that you make Brian. Acts of aggression are often preceded by the use of profanity. Police officers are often required to deescalate but if their efforts are laced with profanity, it could be construed as the run-up to an act of aggression. Using profanity among friends isn't the same as there isn't that undercurrent of fear and distrust that exists between civilians and police. Anything that can be done to lessen the likelihood that encounters between police officers and members of the community will escalate to violence is worth examining. Speaking in reasoned tones, making eye contact and using language that isn't laced with profanity is showing respect. Being a police officer can be incredibly difficult and stress-filled but despite this, police officers are held to a higher standard of conduct and de-normalizing the use of profanity is a great start.
Counsel | White Collar Defense & Investigations | Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
1 个月Great insight Brian. Language (both verbal and non) conveys professionalism, discipline, knowledge and authority. Just as we would think less of doctors and lawyers who resort to profanity, so to regarding law enforcement officers. Respectful vocabulary is also appropriate for those who aspire to be role models. I would set such high expectations for all who represent the citizenry.
Private Investigator, Consultant, Retired FBI Operations Executive, Board Ready
1 个月I couldn’t agree more. Simple, costs nothing, and is painless.
Anti-Financial Crime Attorney and Investigator
1 个月Sadly, this is part of a larger, societal issue. It's difficult to sit down with my kids (all grown now) to watch many TV shows or movies without being embarrassed by the language used. This use of language has become normalized and it is a shame.
GATA-SPEAR Instructor at Department of State
1 个月I agree with all the comments here but I believe it a far deeper issue. I’m not sure how old these officers were having the casual conversation, it doesn’t matter, it’s not professional. Nevertheless, the normalization of profanity stretches far deeper. Have you visited a high school lately. Have you been to a school sporting event lately. These kids have trash mouths and has become perfectly acceptable. Teachers and administrators do nothing because these same kids use the same language when they speak to their parents. Guess who grows up and becomes our public servants? Society, generally, has allowed this to become normal. It’s unprofessional, it shows lack of vocabulary, and escalates situations that could possibly be de-escalated if the language is controlled.