Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between street-level, non-supervisory police officers with baccalaureate degrees, and their total number of reported negative behaviors over a five year period as represented by personnel complaints, which consists of external and internal complaints. Methodology. The research methodology was a causal comparative study using archival data, collected from six Southern California police agencies, which examined the difference between two variables. The primary independent variable was a baccalaureate degree. Dependent variable (1) included the number of personnel complaints, external complaints, and internal complaints considered the sample average. A t-test was performed to test the sample average (personnel complaints, external complaints, internal complaints) to the group of officers with baccalaureate degrees, and the group of officers without a baccalaureate degree. The research questions examined the relationship between the frequency of personnel complaints, external complaints, and internal complaints over a five year period against street level, non-supervisory police officers and the possession of a four year baccalaureate degrees. Theoretical framework. Personnel complaints and the possession of a baccalaureate degree were tested for differences using the theories of cynicism, authoritarianism and dogmatism. Findings. Analysis of data indicated that street-level, non-supervisory officers without baccalaureate degrees were more likely to receive external and internal complaints, but on an intra-agency basis as opposed to a consistent finding across all agencies. Conclusions and recommendations. Based upon the findings of this study, further research utilizing regional samples and larger populations is recommended. Longitudinal studies following police recruits through several years of employment is also recommended. The influence of other variables, specifically organizational culture and socialization may have a greater impact upon officer behavior than education level.