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Perceived Police Authority as a Function of Uniform Hat and Sex

Clothing cues affect first impressions and social interactions. Results of a social interaction may depend in part on the influence of clothing cues on the initial first impression. For example, in many instances a policeperson needs to be perceived as authoritarian and formal to accomplish task objectives. A uniform that conveys an image of authority may enhance the ability of the policeperson to accomplish the job tasks. Research shows that the image conveyed by clothing may depend upon the context within which it is worn. Sex of the uniform wearer may be one such context variable. The present exploratory research was designed to study the relationship between uniform hats and perceived authority. A 2 (sex of stimulus person) × 9 (hat style) factorial laboratory experiment with repeated measures on both factors was conducted. Data were analyzed using Friedman's nonparametric analysis of variance. Uniform hats were important perceptual cues conveying differing degrees of authority. Generally, policepersons wearing any of the eight hats were seen as having more authority than policepersons not wearing a uniform hat. Perceived authority was not a function of the hat style per se but was influenced by the sex of the individual wearing the hat. Uniform hats had a greater influence on a policewoman's image than on a policeman's image. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for police attire in general and a policewoman's uniform in particular.