What is the effect of police legitimacy on interactions with community members?

The effect of police legitimacy on interactions with community members primarily promotes greater trust. When a police department is perceived as legitimate, it means that the community views the police as fair, just, and respectful in their actions and decisions. This perception fosters positive relationships between the police and the community, encouraging cooperative interactions and open communication.

People are more likely to engage with law enforcement, share information, and support community safety initiatives when they trust the police. A legitimate police force also tends to receive higher levels of compliance from community members, as they believe that the police have their best interests at heart and are committed to maintaining order and safety in an unbiased manner. This trust serves to enhance the overall effectiveness of policing and can lead to reduced crime rates and more successful community policing efforts.