What Is Policing?

This text provides an accessible, up to date and thought-provoking introduction to policing for all those undertaking degrees and foundation degrees. It aims not only to inform students and prepare them for their course, but also to confront them with some of the issues and challenges faced by all those who perform a policing role. This book is an essential foundation for the Policing Matters series, explaining what policing is and what the police do, including dispelling many of the myths, and examining topics such as authority and discretion, wrongdoing and accountability, and public expectations and acceptance. The context for and culture of policing is fully explored throughout.

Books in the Policing Matters series have been specifically written to support students in higher education undertaking degrees or foundation degrees in policing. They provide key information and learning activities related to the core modules delivered on policing courses and are intended as a primary resource for students. All books include clear chapter objectives, case studies, practical and reflective tasks, and chapter summaries.

P A J Waddington is Professor of Social Policy, Policy Research Institute, the University of Wolverhampton. He has undertaken over 30 years of academic research and is the initiator of the BSc (lions) Policing degree.
Martin Wright is senior lecturer in the School of Legal Studies at the University of Wolverhampton and is the award leader for the BSc Policing degree. He retired from West Midlands Police in November 2008 after having completed 30 years service. He has a Bachelor of Law degree, a Post Graduate Certificate in Higher Education, a Master of Science degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in criminology.