Elevating Professional Standards: De-normalizing the Use of Profanity in Police Work

In law enforcement, communication plays a crucial role in every aspect of police work, from building community trust to managing high-stress situations. It's no secret that the use of the “f word” and other profanity has become ingrained in some corners of police culture. Whether in casual conversations or during the intense moments of a chase or arrest, profanity slips out frequently, often without a second thought. It's time for police leadership to take a stand and de-normalize the use of such language in their departments. There are no other client-facing and/or public service professions with the same laissez-faire supervisory response (or supervisory use) of profanity. 

Why It Matters

The use of profanity will tarnish the image of a police department, eroding public trust and undermining the professionalism that officers work hard to maintain. In an era where every action and word can be recorded and scrutinized, it's more important than ever for officers to present themselves in the best possible light because every local police interaction becomes a national police event through the lens of social media. By eliminating the use of profanity, departments can demonstrate a commitment to higher professional standards and foster a more respectful and constructive environment for both officers and the communities they serve.

De-normalizing the use of profanity begins with recognition, discussion and training. Police academies and ongoing professional development programs must emphasize the importance of effective, respectful communication. Globally, I’ve never encountered a training program where profanity was presented as a part of the curriculum or research that has suggested it to be effective in bolstering commands or driving suspect’s behaviors. Officers should be provided with tools and techniques to manage stress and de-escalate situations without resorting to profanity; this includes training in emotional intelligence, stress management and communication skills.

Leadership's Role

Leadership sets the tone for the entire department. Agency leaders must lead by example, consistently using professional language and holding their teams accountable. By making it clear that the use of profanity is unacceptable and holding employees accountable, leaders can create a culture of respect and professionalism that permeates all levels of the department.