Patriotism and Perceptions of Police: Examining the Racial Divide Between Black and White Americans

Research has documented racial group differences in individuals’ patriotic attitudes and their perceptions of police; however, research has not yet examined whether there is a direct relationship between patriotism and perceptions of police. For Black and White Americans, these are two particularly influential constructs given the realities of systemic racism that are embedded in American society (which might influence one’s patriotic attitudes) and the ongoing publicized accounts of police brutality perpetuated against Black Americans. The current study provides insight into the dynamics of these two constructs. Specifically, the present study evaluated the relationship between patriotism and perceptions of police and whether such relationship would be moderated by race. Participants (N = 352 [Black participants, n = 181; White participants, n = 171]) completed a measure of patriotism developed for the present study and a measure evaluating their perceptions of police. For both Black and White participants, as patriotic attitudes increased, so did their perceptions of police. Further, racial group membership was supported as a moderator. Limitations and implications for research and psychological practice are discussed.