Critical Review of Visual Models for Police Use of Force Decision-Making

Recent calls for widespread police reform include re-examination of existing training and practice surrounding the use of force (UOF, e.g., verbal and non-verbal communication, physical tactics, firearms). Visual models representing police UOF decision-making are used for both police training and public communication. However, most models have not been empirically developed or assessed in either the applied police or vision science literatures, representing significant gaps in knowledge. The purpose of the current review is to provide a novel, relevant, and practical analysis of the visual components of three common police UOF decision-making model types (circular, cyclical, staircase). We begin with a critical evaluation of the visual features specific to each model type (i.e., shape), followed by critical reviews of common visual features, including colour, implied motion, text, and clarity. The insights provided by the current work afford scientists from visual disciplines a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the improvement of existing police UOF practices, with the goal of promoting public and occupational safety. To this end, we conclude with evidence-based recommendations for designing visual models that effectively promote training of police and communication of police UOF decision-making to the public.