Author Information

Sarah HarrellFollow

Presentation Type

Presentation

Faculty Mentor’s Full Name

Kathy Kuipers

Faculty Mentor’s Department

Sociology

Abstract / Artist's Statement

It is seemingly common knowledge that women have been seen as the stereotypically inferior gender for centuries. Nowadays, however, women are starting to get the recognition and equality they deserve. Along with this, women are climbing their way up the ladder of power. I am interested in how the women within the different law enforcement agencies perceive their position, recognition, and power in what is traditionally seen as a ‘man’s world’. My research will include semi-structured interviews with 3 women who currently serve on or have served on varying law enforcement agencies. I asked the women in law enforcement questions such as what initially attracted them to this particular line of work; if they were concerned about the work because they are women; if they have had to jump over more hurdles and work harder than their male counterparts for the same pay and recognition; and how they confront what they perceive to be unfair treatment in the workplace. I expect to find a common theme between these women and the way they believe they have been impacted as a woman in this career, such as a sense of togetherness and pride for the work they have accomplished on the job. With more and more women joining law enforcement all over America, it is important to understand how these women see their role in their tough and demanding line of work.

Category

Humanities

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The Contributions of Women in Law Enforcement Throughout Missoula

It is seemingly common knowledge that women have been seen as the stereotypically inferior gender for centuries. Nowadays, however, women are starting to get the recognition and equality they deserve. Along with this, women are climbing their way up the ladder of power. I am interested in how the women within the different law enforcement agencies perceive their position, recognition, and power in what is traditionally seen as a ‘man’s world’. My research will include semi-structured interviews with 3 women who currently serve on or have served on varying law enforcement agencies. I asked the women in law enforcement questions such as what initially attracted them to this particular line of work; if they were concerned about the work because they are women; if they have had to jump over more hurdles and work harder than their male counterparts for the same pay and recognition; and how they confront what they perceive to be unfair treatment in the workplace. I expect to find a common theme between these women and the way they believe they have been impacted as a woman in this career, such as a sense of togetherness and pride for the work they have accomplished on the job. With more and more women joining law enforcement all over America, it is important to understand how these women see their role in their tough and demanding line of work.