Public perceptions of the CJS

Question 1

Tyler (2006)

Answer 1

Argues fairness of police actions is the most important factor shaping attitudes of legitimacy

Question 2

Ferraro (1995)

Answer 2

“fear of crime paradox” asserts that those most fearful of victimisation are those least likely to experience it

Question 3

Office for National Statistics (2016)

Answer 3

Most perceive crime as still on the rise even though it has largely been falling

Question 4

Casey Report 2023

Answer 4

• Widespread bullying in police force - 33% of staff with protected characteristics targeted
• 1/5 LGB experienced homophobia
• female officers face sexism
• Ethnic minorities experience racism
• London women/children deprioritised
• Force cannot accept its criticisms - “culture of denial”

Question 5

Perceptions of crime - key concepts

Answer 5

• Trust - something you do, Confidence - something you have
• Fairness - how we experience/perceive experience - Procedural + distributive fairness
• Legitimacy - whether actions of police are perceived as being valid/just
• No trust =/= no policing by consent
• low confidence in police = less confidence in CJS
• Public funds police + CJS

Question 6

What effects public perception of CJS?

Answer 6

• Political/economic problems
• Level of contact with CJS - more contact usually = lower confidence
• Media representation of CJS/police - can cause moral panics
• People’s characteristics - race, gender, age, education
• Perception of local area + antisocial behaviour
• Feelings of safety