Graduation Term

2017

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

School of Communication

Committee Chair

Peter Smudde

Abstract

Violence in the City of Rockford, Illinois and surrounding cities has made the Rockford Police Department’s communication vitally important for shaping the future of the community. The primary objective of this project was to gain a greater understanding of how the local police department utilizes one particular communication channel: social media. While some research examining law enforcement’s use of social media exists, this study is unique as it specifically applies Fisher’s (1984) narrative paradigm and key concepts related to public relations functions including relationship building. The analysis revealed that the department does utilize some narrative concepts, but could certainly reevaluate their use of social media to enhance their communication with the community.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

DOI

http://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2017.Fray.C

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