Improving Public Understanding of Police Use of Force

The public does not appear to have a good understanding of police use of force (e.g., how often force is used, shooting accuracy, use-of-force dynamics). Online educational modules appeared to improve public understanding of police use of force to a significant degree. In addition to this improved understanding of police use of force, there was a significant increase in perceptions of police legitimacy associated with the educational modules, which may be associated with other potential benefits (e.g., increased cooperation with police).