Abstract

STEYN, Jéan  and  MKHIZE, Sazelo. 'Darker shades of blue': A comparison of three decades of South African Police Service culture. SA crime q. [online]. 2016, n.57, pp.15-26. ISSN 2413-3108.  https://doi.org/10.17159/2413-3108/2016/v0n57a1241.

Research on police has emphasised that police culture reflects the identities and sensitivities of police officials. Recently, a 'contemporary police culture' school of thought has emerged, challenging the traditional view that police character is homogenous and universal. Supporters of this philosophy argue that developments in policing have dramatically changed police culture, making traditional characterisations antiquated and irrelevant. This article contributes to this debate by exploring three core elements of early police organisational culture models - solidarity, isolation and cynicism -among a representative sample of South African Police Service (SAPS) officials with 10, 20 and 30 years' experience.

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