Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice

Advisor

Marcelo Castro

Committee Member

Maria Levi-Minzi

Committee Member

Damon Mitchell

Keywords

police recruitment, officer retention, incentives, job satisfaction

Abstract

This study examines factors contributing to the staffing crisis in police departments, focusing on officers' perceptions of their organizations. It explores their attitudes toward their departments, motivations for joining law enforcement, and reasons for remaining in their positions. Additionally, the research assesses the impact of various incentives on officer retention.

A total of 140 participants were surveyed, with 113 completing the survey in its entirety, ensuring reliable data analysis. Demographic findings revealed a predominantly male sample (85.8%), with most officers aged between 25 and 44. Analysis of the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) indicated that intrinsic satisfaction (M = 3.85; range = 1 to 5) exceeded extrinsic satisfaction (M = 3.12) and general satisfaction (M = 3.58).

The most influential factors for joining a department were a lifelong goal of becoming a law enforcement officer (M = 2.32), personal commitment to serving in public safety (M = 2.01), and a competitive salary (M = 2.32) on a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 represents the most influential and 5 represents the least influential.

For retention, officers identified enhanced benefits packages (M = 2.50, SD = 1.44), a lifelong commitment to law enforcement (M = 2.60, SD = 1.40), and personal reasons (M = 2.11, SD = 1.19) as key factors. Regarding incentives, the strongest influences on retention were Uniform Reimbursement Pay (M = 2.67, SD = 1.18), Shift Differential Pay (M = 2.74, SD = 1.37), and Education Incentives (M = 2.92, SD = 1.32). Conversely, Bilingual Pay (M = 3.87, SD = 1.27) and Relocation Assistance (M = 3.86, SD = 1.29) had the least impact.

These findings suggest a critical need for police departments to address both intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting officer satisfaction and retention. Policymakers must enhance recruitment strategies by emphasizing organizational values and reputation while also expanding benefits and incentives. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights for police agencies aiming to cultivate a committed and resilient workforce.

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