Still other theorists have noted that the same officer may proceed through all of these syndromes over the course of a career (O'Connor, 2005). Finally, some social scientists dispute the singularity of the authortarian mindset within police officers at all. "Other approaches in the study of police culture are devoted to the topic of typologies, or types of police officers," like the idealists who are "college educated" with "high ideals" versus "enforcers" who are ends oriented" (O'Connor, 2005) It might be added that different police brotherhoods will also likely have different police cultures. A small municipality is likely to have fewer Wyatt Earps or enforcers types than a police department located in a large city. An urban police force may have a more tolerant attitude, and a higher percentage of idealistic or college educated officers than a small Southern town.

The specific characteristics of the force, rather than policing in general, may pre-select who becomes part of the force, and...

But there is no one police personality, rather there are many personalities, and many personalities of policing. Also, the personal, individual impressions of officers during their formative years will influence their image of the police. An officer who grows up idealizing violent images of law enforcement will take a very different view of policing than a person from a small town, and this may influence where they chose to pursue their policing career, and who they chose as a mentor.
Works Cited

Is there a Police Personality?" (2007). Slide 12. John Jay: CUNY Psychology 377.

Week 4. Retrieved 5 Feb 2007 at http://web.jjay.cuny.edu/~pzapf/classes/PY377/week_04/sld012.htm

O'Connor, Tom. (2005). "Police Culture and Behavior." Last updated: 26 Jun 2005. Retrieved 5 Feb 2007 at http://faculty.ncwc.edu/toconnor/205/205lect02.htm