Police Use of Force Training: Integrative Review of Quantitative Studies

This integrative review of the literature included 78 studies and aimed at identifying the most promising practices on police training to enhance performance on use of force (UoF). Several types of interventions and delivery methods encompassing all levels of force (verbalization/de-escalation, less-lethal force and lethal force) were analyzed. We assessed the quality of the evidence, grouped by training types and outcomes. Results suggest that the use of stimuli equivalent to those expected in real policing and its environment may enhance the effectiveness of training. In the study, simulations (video- or real-life-based), training with biofeedback, range shooting, martial arts training, and imagery training were among the practices that yielded the most favorable results. Splitting the target behavior in smaller units for training purposes and the use of periodic simulated tests may also enhance learning. We indicated some directions for future developments on police training research.