What aspect of police encounters is emphasized by the concept of procedural justice?

The concept of procedural justice emphasizes fairness and transparency in interactions between law enforcement officers and the community. It is fundamentally concerned with how procedures are implemented during encounters, focusing on ensuring that individuals feel they are treated with dignity and respect, and that their rights are upheld. Procedural justice suggests that when people perceive the police to operate fairly and transparently, they are more likely to cooperate with law enforcement and view the system positively, even if the outcomes are not always in their favor.

This approach underscores the importance of the process over the outcomes, meaning that the manner in which officers conduct their interactions significantly affects public perception and trust in law enforcement. By prioritizing fairness and transparency, police departments can foster positive relationships with the communities they serve, ultimately contributing to more effective policing.