How the Millennial Generation Will Influence Future Law Enforcement Leadership

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative research study is to examine the future influence of Millennial law enforcement leadership. In-depth interviews were conducted with 37 experienced law enforcement leaders from Veteran Vietnam and Generation Jones Boomers, and Generation X cohorts, to determine their attitudes, opinions, expectations, as well as any biases associated with the newest generation of officer, the Millennial. Thirteen members of Millennial law enforcement were also interviewed to gather their impressions of what will be required of them as future law enforcement leaders. Fifty interviews were conducted to get a sense of how this distinctly different generation will lead law enforcement into a post 9/11 era.

This research study investigates leadership development from an intergenerational perspective. Leadership methodology and styles are examined from a historical perspective to properly articulate how the culture in which law enforcement finds itself at any given point is subject to systemic changes, societal metamorphoses, which require operational changes in law enforcement leadership practices. Experienced law enforcement leaders explain in great detail the influence of upbringing, values, ethics, morals, and beliefs—experiential social and cultural influencers associated with years of law enforcement experience, emulation of leadership role models, and formal training and schooling—on their particular leadership credos.

In this study, Millennial officers provide insight into their best methods of learning leadership skills, traits, and abilities that do not differ noticeably from their older, more experienced counterparts. The linkage between generations may offer suggestions to improve intergenerational cooperation and communication.

Commonality garnered through this research study may offer insight into increased intergenerational cooperation pertaining to effective knowledge transfer and succession planning associated with Millennial leadership development.