Police Officers’ Perceptions of the Appropriate Adult Role: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

The Appropriate Adult role is one safeguard implemented in England and Wales to support vulnerable suspects in custody. Research has demonstrated this role is a complex one, however, there is limited research exploring police officers’ perspectives. This study aimed to investigate their experiences and perceptions of this role. A qualitative approach was adopted, conducting semi-structured interviews with 15 serving or retired police officers. Following an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, two superordinate themes, ‘Understanding and Expectations of the Appropriate Adult Role’ and ‘Experiences Working with Appropriate Adults’ emerged alongside six subordinate themes. Results indicated that participants perceive the Appropriate Adult role as supportive yet reported issues regarding access and parents’ emotional involvement. Although these findings demonstrate an increased understanding, there is still confusion surrounding the role. This research provides a novel perspective surrounding Appropriate Adults, having implications surrounding the treatment and support vulnerable suspects are receiving in custody.