This article seeks to identify the generative processes that influence perceptions of the police in the context of an inner-city neighborhood in Northern Ireland that has been affected by increases in crime and disorder in the aftermath of the peace process.
Drawing upon original survey research this article seeks to identify the generative processes that influence perceptions of the police in the context of an inner-city neighborhood in Northern Ireland that has been affected by increases in crime and disorder in the aftermath of the peace process. Conceptually the authors drew upon recent research from England and Wales that outlined confidence in the police in terms of instrumental and expressive dimensions. The authors applied this framework and considered whether it provided a useful template for understanding the post-conflict dynamics of police-community relations in their study area. Contrary to much received wisdom this analysis suggests that instrumental concerns about crime and illegal activity are a more influential predictor of attitudes to the police than expressive concerns with disorder and anti-social behavior. Consequently the authors' discussion points to the variance in local and national survey data and questions the degree to which the latter can usefully inform the authors understanding of trends and developments in discrete micro-spaces. The author's conclusion outlines the potential policy implications for state policing practice in deprived urban spaces. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage Journals.