The Multiple Dimensions of Trust in Resident/Police Relations in Boston

Abstract

What is it about resident/police relations in poor urban communities that results in many community members' deep distrust in police? This question is addressed by applying a framework of the “four trust questions” to analyze the complexities of community members' perceptions of police and police action aimed at reducing youth violence in Boston's high-crime neighborhoods. To differentiate residents' multiple—and sometimes conflicting—expectations of police, trust is broken down into four questions about priorities, competence, dependability, and respectfulness. Based on more than 50 qualitative interviews with community members, findings reveal that many residents considered the police to meet their expectations of competence and dependability but not of shared priorities or respect. Respect, in particular, was important to residents, although they recognized a tension between police acting competently and respectfully.