Police professionalism and critical thinking: model alignment and application to training

Résumé

The professionalisation of policing in the UK has evolved significantly, especially since 2012, with structural changes like the establishment of the College of Policing and the introduction of Police and Crime Commissioners, although recent changes in police entry routes could challenge this professionalisation journey. This paper explores the role of critical thinking in UK policing and its potential to enhance police professionalism. It examines professionalism aligning the National Decision Model used in policing with selected academic frameworks. The paper argues that embedding critical thinking within police training enhances ethical decision making, problem solving, and adaptability, thereby reinforcing professionalism. Ultimately, the integration of critical thinking into policing is deemed essential for advancing UK policing's professionalisation.