Problem framing in problem solving: a case study
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine how initial frameworks for understanding police problems influence how police analyze and address those problems in the context of problem-oriented policing. The paper shows why researchers, and police, should pay more attention to problem theories.
Design/methodology/approach
Data for this case study were obtained from the Middletown, Ohio Police Department, the Middletown housing authority, and the Butler County auditor. Frequency tables and simple graphs were used to identify patterns in the calls for service. Discussions with police officials were used to describe how police originally conceptualized the problem described.
Findings
The paper found that initial problem framing has a significant impact on the available interventions and that problem solvers should be vigilant against errors of problem identification.
Research limitations/implications
Caution must be taken when generalizing from a single case study. Nevertheless, more attention needs to be placed on problem identification and framing in the problem-solving process.
Practical implications
Police problem solvers should be vigilant against errors in problem identification, particularly when the original problem identification is broad or when interventions based on the original problem frame do not produce the desired effect.
Originality/value
There are few studies that specifically examine the problem identification and definition process. This paper adds to the literature on problem-oriented policing by examining the critical yet understudied process of problem framing. It also adds to our knowledge of place-specific analysis.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was supported by funding from the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (2009-RA-EOR-2221). The findings and recommendations expressed within this paper are from the authors and do not necessarily represent the official positions of the Office of Criminal Justice Services.
The authors wish to thank Barbara Armstrong for her comments on an earlier revision of this paper.
Citation
C. Payne, T., Gallagher, K., E. Eck, J. and Frank, J. (2013), "Problem framing in problem solving: a case study", Policing: An International Journal, Vol. 36 No. 4, pp. 670-682. https://doi.org/10.1108/PIJPSM-01-2012-0081
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2013, Emerald Group Publishing Limited