Comparing Perceptions of Local and Campus Police in Central Pennsylvania

Abstract:

Prior research examined the effects of personal experiences, race, and location as variables affecting perceptions of law enforcement. However, little research focused on the levels of policing – such as with university police agencies, local police departments, county/state police departments, and more. This study aimed to fill the gap in the literature of college students’ views of local and campus police agencies. In particular, this study sought to analyze and assess students from three rural campuses in Central Pennsylvania. This research included an evaluation of the impact of race and neighborhood conditions on participant perceptions. Using self-report, cross-sectional survey data, the purpose of this study was to explore three related aspects of personal experience, student perceptions, and levels of policing.