PRF2601
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Due August 2025
, PRF2601
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Due August 2025
QUESTION 1
Work Values in Policing
Work values serve as guiding principles that shape how police officers perform their
duties. These values are not abstract ideals; they are actionable frameworks that inform
ethical decision-making, foster public trust, and support the legitimacy of the justice
system. Below are seven key work values essential to effective and ethical policing,
each explained in terms of its significance and practical application.
Integrity
Integrity refers to a police officer’s unwavering commitment to moral and ethical
standards. It involves honesty, reliability, and doing what is right—even when no one is
watching. For example, an officer who refuses a bribe during a routine traffic stop is
demonstrating integrity. This value is foundational because any deviation undermines
the public’s trust and the legitimacy of the police force.
Application: Integrity ensures that officers make impartial decisions and resist
corruption, which are essential to justice and democratic accountability (Bayley, 2001).
Professionalism
Professionalism is the consistent demonstration of competence, discipline, and ethical
conduct. It includes maintaining composure, applying skills appropriately, and treating
all individuals with respect, regardless of the situation. An officer de-escalating a
potentially violent conflict through calm, measured dialogue exemplifies professionalism.
Application: Professionalism enhances public confidence in law enforcement and
ensures that officers uphold the standards expected in high-stakes environments (Crank
& Caldero, 2010).
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Due August 2025
, PRF2601
Assignment 1
Semester 2
Due August 2025
QUESTION 1
Work Values in Policing
Work values serve as guiding principles that shape how police officers perform their
duties. These values are not abstract ideals; they are actionable frameworks that inform
ethical decision-making, foster public trust, and support the legitimacy of the justice
system. Below are seven key work values essential to effective and ethical policing,
each explained in terms of its significance and practical application.
Integrity
Integrity refers to a police officer’s unwavering commitment to moral and ethical
standards. It involves honesty, reliability, and doing what is right—even when no one is
watching. For example, an officer who refuses a bribe during a routine traffic stop is
demonstrating integrity. This value is foundational because any deviation undermines
the public’s trust and the legitimacy of the police force.
Application: Integrity ensures that officers make impartial decisions and resist
corruption, which are essential to justice and democratic accountability (Bayley, 2001).
Professionalism
Professionalism is the consistent demonstration of competence, discipline, and ethical
conduct. It includes maintaining composure, applying skills appropriately, and treating
all individuals with respect, regardless of the situation. An officer de-escalating a
potentially violent conflict through calm, measured dialogue exemplifies professionalism.
Application: Professionalism enhances public confidence in law enforcement and
ensures that officers uphold the standards expected in high-stakes environments (Crank
& Caldero, 2010).
