Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the leadership behaviors, beliefs, and practices of women who navigated the law enforcement system from academy to police chief in California. The second purpose of the study was to identify barriers to promotion, and strategies to overcome barriers to promotion as perceived by males and females in law enforcement who have navigated the system from academy to police chief in California. Methodology. The study utilized a descriptive research design in which 20 female police chiefs and 22 male chiefs were interviewed throughout California. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with the female chiefs where they were asked a series of questions regarding their training, experience, and leadership characteristics. The interviews with the male chiefs were conducted via telephone and contained questions regarding their views on the barriers they believe women face when attempting to promote and the strategies for overcoming those barriers. Findings. Female police chiefs in this study were mainly White, educated, and experienced. They had children and had to change departments in order to promote. Their main reason for changing departments was a lack of opportunity at their current department. The relationship that helped them promote was a mentor. Female police chiefs said good communication was a leadership behavior and good quality service was a leadership belief. Their gender was their biggest barrier and they used their mindset as a strategy for overcoming barriers over the course of their careers. Male chiefs in this study said the biggest barrier women face in law enforcement is that it is still male dominated. Male chiefs said mentoring and the recruitment of more women into the profession are both strategies for overcoming barriers. Conclusions. For some, the glass ceiling remains unbroken. Women can have a perfect resume and still be turned down for the job because some arenas are just not ready for a woman in charge. For others, it is mind over matter to promote. Anything is possible including having children and promoting to chief of police. Recommendations. This study can be expanded to include other agencies in California. It can also be studied at the state and federal levels. A comparative study can be done with other states. Barriers to promotion can be studied at other ranks such as sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. Finally, a study can be conducted to compare the differences in perceptions of officers who watch current television shows that promote women in leadership roles and officers who do not watch these shows.