Knowledge of Psychology by the Nigeria Police and Its Impact on Crime Control

This study examined the knowledge of psychology by the Nigeria Police and its impact on Crime Control using survey research. A total of 54 participants from the Nigeria Police which comprises of 36 male and 18 female from Abuja Municipal Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja participated in the study, using structured self-report questionnaires. The participants were selected using random sampling method. Three research hypotheses were tested using descriptive and correlation statistics. The results revealed that: There will be a significant increase in crime control if there is increase in the knowledge of psychology by the Nigeria Police (r = .677, P<.01). There will be a significant increase in public trust toward the Nigeria Police if there is increase in the knowledge of psychology by the Nigeria Police(r = .720, P<.01). There will be a significant difference between the graduates and non- graduate’ Police officer’s knowledge of Psychology as it relates to effective crime control. It was discussed that knowledge of Psychology is necessary for effective policing since it is a discipline that studies human behavior. 

Recommendation was made on encouraging the application of psychology in different areas of life especially in the area of criminal justice system and particularly the Police. The police as gatekeeper to the criminal justice system are the first unit to meet the criminal by investigation, arrest, interrogation and prosecution. Our legislative arm of government need to make laws that will introduce the study and application of psychology especially to the Nigeria Police. This will go a long way in providing effective crime control.