The relationship between job satisfaction and public altruism within police is investigated. A meaningful, statistically significant correlation (r = .38, p = .01) was found between these variables, particularly among more recent police department employees (r = .55, p = .02). The happier the police are with police work, the more helpful they are toward the public, and vice versa. Although no causal relationship is established, the data are interpreted as a serious obstacle to the movement for professionalization of police.
BrayfieldA. H.WellsR. V.StrateM. W.Interrelationships among measures of job satisfaction and general satisfaction. Journal of Applied Psychology, 1957, 41, 201–205.
