Okeyo Samwel Otieno

The Professionalization of the Modern Private Security: It’s Growth, Challenges, and Changes in the Security Paradigm and its Implications in Society. Abstract. The existence of private security can be traced back in the past two decades, when the society realized the need to supplement the services offered by the public law enforcement officers. Ever since, private security has witnessed a dramatic growth, propelled by the changes in the nature of property relations, and work place dynamics. The continued growth of private security has reshaped the structures, and modernized security systems, creating a land mark in modern security profession. As a profession, security requires advance mental training rather than common sense or intuition. This is because the ever growing security threats and challenges calls for a modern private security service provider, with sufficient knowledge, versed with investigative aptitudes and the technique to apply security measures appropriate for specific circumstances, and properly using the varying managerial skills. Over the past decades, private security has played expanded roles in the society, and continues to do so by promoting both organizational survival and individuals’ wellbeing. Major challenges facing private security starting with the general public’s unwillingness to perceive security as a profession are perpetuated by ignorance and lack of awareness of the exact roles of private security practitioners. The aim of the study was to focus on the professionalization of the modern private security, its growth, challenges and changes in modern private security industry (PSI), and the implications of the field in society. The continued growth and development of modern private security as a profession have been making headlines, especially given the complexities and the ever changing security challenges, such as cyber security and terrorism. This is common especially on television screens being graced by security experts giving their views on the prevailing security breaches. Since lack of awareness with regards to the commitment of security practitioners in protecting the general public and their property makes it appear of low profile, educating people on security steps, and why certain decisions are made can work together in raising the profile of private security among company employees and the general public. 1.0 Introduction. 1.1 Background information. The term profession is defined by Walter (1975) as a vocation whose objective is to offer service to others. In his further assertion, Walter points out milestones necessary for an occupation to be considered a profession. They include; to begin with, a full time job. Secondly is the consideration of an established training school. The third milestone is the establishment of an association of the professionals, and finally, the establishment of licensing criteria. The successful practice in the field of security requires an elaborate specialized knowledge and an extensive general managerial skills (Robert, 2011; Charles, 2011; Gerald and Edward, 2003). This is because private security plays an important role in today’s world, and therefore widely accepted and recognized as a demanding service. As a field of study, private security has witnessed much progress in the establishment of professional certification programs (Ralph and Eric, 1998), and development of formal academic programs. However, security as a profession still faces obstacles related to erroneous public perception (Simon and Angelina, 2009) and the absence of a proper structured criterion to the practice. Unlike other disciplines such as nursing, law, engineering among others, society does not readily accepts security as a profession (Roy, 2018). While it is important to note that eventually, public perception matters considering the attitudes held by the society and the opinions held by corporate decision makers, individuals within the security industry may not conclude on professionalism of security, but the consumers and the beneficiaries of security services, who are the general public will decide when the field is considered a profession. For security to reach at the level of professionalism with other disciplines, there are significant concerns which must be addressed. Frank and Larry (2016) notes that qualification criteria must be established, promoted and the ambiguity surrounding it eliminated. Second, security as a discipline should aim at widening its acceptance. This can be achieved through advancing and promoting security related studies. The third concern according to Deborah (2005) is that security managers must put a concerted efforts to develop business related skills to earn them respect within the corporation. Finally, there is need to create an awareness to enhance an understanding of modern private security, and appreciate the roles played by security agencies in the community and society in general. Efforts to promote the professionalism of security studies have been marginalized, regardless of some institutions of learning offering degrees in security management (Hamza, 2000). This is because the industry lacks a proper qualification criteria. Looking at certified protection professional (CPP), there is prove that only voluntary criteria, which has limited value exists. As much as many practitioners in the field of security display high standards of professionalism, the industry remains incapacitated to ascertain the true standard level (Sandi and IFPO, 2010). Therefore, public perception of the certification program becomes disregarded. One of the critical steps towards inaugurating security as a profession is the establishment of mandatory certification criteria. The key step will also help the industry realize progress in changing public perception for the good. Negative stereotypes towards security guards and security firm at large, noted by William, John & Clifford (1991) works against the professionalism of the field. Some of the stereotypes are propagated by the public, while others are fed by the industry. By not offering basic and in- depth specialized training to security practitioners, their interaction with the public will be different. This is so crucial because the lack of a common codification in the field of security puts its professionalism in question (Rosen, 2008). Since private security officers do not have same authority as police, soft skills are more important than the police uniforms and badges common with most security firms. This is because private security officers do not necessarily need to have automatic weapons, full tactical turnout and Special Forces experience, but responsible for deterrence and prevention (Noaks, 2000). Although private security is not high- paying compared to other profession, better training, professional attire, improved technology, and responsive management as well as the engagement of the public in private security matters can help change the perception towards the professionalism of private security (Steden and Nalla, 2010). Despite the changes that have come with modernization, especially in other fields of professionalism, some private security services still use decade’s old practices. In view of Sarre and Prensler (2011), outdated tracking and reporting methods, lowly and poorly trained officers and technological redundancy, just to mention a few, are linked to death, injuries and property damage. Since many private security providers aim at maximizing profit margins, they opt for very basic services. This in turn does not guarantee their clients a competent and reliable security service, thus a negative perception towards the professionalism of private security in public, reports Cunningham, Strauchs & VanMeter (1990) 1.2 Rationale of the research. While a plethora of previous research exists on various aspects of modern private security, the study on private security is far from being exhausted (Strom, et al. 2010). Specifically, further studies can be conducted in the field of private security to critically analyze how public perception towards the professionalism of security can be enhanced. Alternatively, new studies can be conducted to help demystify the stereotypes surrounding private security and security officers (Sanguist, Mahy & Morris, 2008). This is important in creating awareness and changing the negative perceptions held by the public. Whereas several studies focus on growth and changes in modern private security, much is needed to be done on the professionalism of the field. Since security officers operate both in private and public sectors, and their roles has also evolved to protection of lives and property, an understanding of how beneficiaries and the clients perceive the existence of the officers, and factors that must be addressed to raise the portfolio of security as a profession requires in- depth research (Dempsey, 2010). Further research is also necessary to assess the professional status of security managers and officers, and make comparisons to those of other recognized professions (Steden and Sarre, 2007). The practical implications of this study relates to the professionalism of modern private security, changes that the field has witnessed in the past decades, challenges faced by security practitioners and the industry at large, and the impacts of private security in society. Successful outcome of the study will be applied in solving problems linked to the professionalization of private security. Issues like public perception, codification of security and demystification of stereotypes (Kasali, 2011) will be solved by applying the recommendations made out of the research findings. This study will also help promote career progression in the field of security. This is possible by looking at loop holes in institutional programs and how best they can be fixed to boost the professionalism of private security. A comprehensive restructuring of certification programs and institutional entry criteria is necessary to enable security as a profession gain trust in the face of the public (Shearing and Stenning, 1981). The research therefore intends to change public perception by proposing ways through which security practitioners can cooperate with the general public in creating awareness of the significance of private security, and the need to look at it in terms of long term engagement rather than a profit focus entity. The research topic relates to the researcher’s aspirations of becoming a security specialist. Key areas of interests include physical, personal and cyber security. In pursuit of protecting property and individuals, the researcher’s level of professionalism is to be prioritized to earn a good reputation from the clients and colleague security personnel. The study is to enable the researcher understand how the public portrays private security, areas they would like address, how they compare the field with other professions and conducts that appear right in the eye of officers in the security industry, yet they are on the receiving end in the public sphere. The study will also enable the researcher contribute to the uplifting of the portfolio of security as a profession. Having in- depth knowledge through the research is a stepping stone in accomplishing his aspirations as well as changing the perception of the public to embrace security just like other high profiled professions. During the research process, the researcher will be in a better position to gather detailed information relating to the study topic since it is my area of specialization. 1.3 Aim and objectives. In view of Ormston, Spencer, Bernard & Snape (2014), aims of the study lay emphasis on the general intentions of the research. Therefore, in this study, the aims reflects on the expectations and aspirations of the research topic. The aims are broadened in the sense that, they paint a picture on the research topic. The aim of the research is to critically assess the professionalism of modern private security in order to identify the changes that the field has undergone, challenges faced with the profession and implications it has on the society. In addition, the research is meant to clarify whether modern security is a profession or not in order to change the perception of the public, recognize the changes the industry has undergone, challenges facing the industry and the important role played by private security in the modern society. Objectives are considered steps taken to accurately answer the research questions. The emphasis is put on the feasibility, sensibility, precision and clearly states how aims of the study are to be achieved. Savin- Baden and Major (2013) notes that objectives are individual statements that address immediate project outcomes. Accurate concepts forms the basis of the objectives, which can be as many as need be, and runs in tandem with the aims of the research problem. Several objectives can be prioritized in the study to ensure the immediate outcomes of the research are achieved. The first objective of the research is to critically assess the perceptions about the professionalism of private security, including public opinions, sentiments of security officers, learning institutions and media portrayals. The second objective is to identify and evaluate changes that have occurred in modern private security, challenges facing security officers in private sector and the implications of private security by looking at the level of satisfaction of clients and security beneficiaries, programs offered in learning institutions and the acceptance of security practitioners. The third objective of the study is to make recommendations to improve the portfolio of the professionalism of private security, promote changes relevant to the uplifting of private security, address challenges that negates private security in public and launch measures focused on empowering individuals on the significant roles played by private security in the society. 1.4 Hypothesis. Professionalization of modern private security is influenced by the public perception, which entirely depend on key changes which must be made in the private security sector, including service delivery, certification and improved training of security officers. 1.5 Definition of key terms Private Security Industry (PSI) is a term widely used in many though it does not have distinctive meaning agreed upon within the law. Generally, Private Security Industry is used to refer to a listed industry which deals in provision of protection to both people’s property as well as industries’ property, either domestic or foreign, working within the rule of law of the state it is based at (De Waard, 1999). The Private Security Industry has been in existence for quite a longer time compared to the military services. The major aim of this industry is to make profit. This is achieved through hiring of professional, trading with them, that is, proving internal security services to people and their assets (Abrahamsen and Williams, 2010). This industry comprises of smaller companies whose main agenda is to deal in prevention of crime, providing security, local provision of private guard services, and warranting public order (Ruddell, Thomas & Patten, 2011). In the United Kingdom, security companies’ budgets surpasses that of the public agencies concerned in maintaining law and order (Krahmann, 2005). Small security companies which operates domestically can be divided in different categories as follows: First, there is the guarding sector, which is the largest component of this industry. It is common in areas with high crime rate and high number of private investments, majorly the urban centers. Guarding officers are assigned duties in places like, railway and bus stations, parking lots, office building’s gate, apartment’s gate, shopping malls, airports and many others (De Waard, 1999). The second category is the electronic security, surveillance and sensor sector (Shearing and Stenning, 1981), where security is administered through installed alarms, quick reaction devices having fast reaction devices attached to them, besides disturbance detective devices, access control and protection. The third sector which is the smallest deals in risk management and carrying out investigations (Halibozek, Jones & Kovacich, 2008). Activities involved here include handling of labor matters, witness services, vetting, and marriage disputes as well as providing VIP protection. Private investigators perform a vital role in criminal discovery and other law breakers as well as conmen. The most problematic and state threatening sector is the risk management, even though it is considered as the rarest. There is high demand for the expansion of PSI services due to high economic growth, political and demographic changes resulting to societal division (Singer, 2003). However, both the public and the state are accepting an aborting share of direct duties in ensuring safety of the society. These functions are hence delegated to the private firms, with an aim of reducing costs, and at the same providing effective security services. In some countries like United States of America, homes and business are almost fully handed over to the private security companies. Profession A paid occupation, having received a formal qualification, achieved after a prolonged training. A profession extends beyond a job, while a job might be a daily activity geared towards one’s livelihood, a profession on the other hand is a career path that requires training and commitment. A number of occupational specializations have strived to achieve professional status. While some of the disciplines including mechanical engineering, social work, psychology, veterinary, medicine among others have risen in status and power following successful stages, others including private security for which this study is based on, have either declined or failed to receive recognition as compared to the formerly mentioned disciplines (Christine, Margery & Jenny, 2009). Notably, as much as a particular profession may have high status than the others, and public prestige, the attached remuneration may be low, and compensations inequitable. Security guard In its simplest form, Mary (2003) defines a security guard as a person, who is in charge of a property or a person, mainly providing protection. A security guard can be interchangeably referred to as security officer to refer to any individual whose main responsibility is to prevent loses, crime and potential risks. This is to be achieved through detection of looming threats and reporting them for quick and necessary actions. Security officer Just like security guard, Mary (2003) a security officer is either employed by a public or private institution. Their main role is to protect assets from theft and hazards such destruction, waste among others. Security officers enforce preventative measures to minimise damage, deter danger and trespass (Philip, 2003). The difference between a security guard and a security officer is their rankings, while they perform most similar tasks. Security guards rank lower than officers, and have little experience and level of education and training Mary (2003). Security officer training Training is an organized activity intended to impart knowledge and skills to enhance performance and productivity in an individual’s occupation. Security officer training therefore, is teaching and developing the knowledge and skills of officers in the private security to improve their productivity, capacity, capability and performance in the provision of protective services, such as deterrence of crime and law enforcement (Ralph and Eric, 1998). Security stereotypes Stereotype is an over generalized belief about the private security, including security officers. A stereotype is an assumption that a particular viewpoint applies the entire group being referred to, in this case, the private security. Stereotypes lead to prejudice and a notion that private security occupation is a low paying job, with a lower portfolio in the society (John, 2007). Private security John (2007) defines private security as entities that mainly provides both armed and unarmed security services and expertise. They engage in guard and patrol services to private as well as public clients. The services include body guard, parking security, guard dog and security guard services. Security management The main role attributed to private security firms is to protect properties against theft and damage, and safeguard individuals from criminal activities. To succeed in their responsibilities, security practitioners must put up appropriate security management strategies. Management entails identification of the assets, which include building, machines, people, then develops, documents and implement policies and procedures for an effective protection of the assets (Brian, 2004; Robert, 2011; Roy, 2017). Professionalism Kultgen (2010) defines professionalism as the skill or competence expected of an individual in any given profession. Professionalism therefore, gives rise to a professional. In addition, any conduct or qualities that is characterized of a profession constitutes professionalism. Professionalization Professionalization is a formal process of transforming an occupation into a profession. The aim of the professionalization of an occupation is to recommend best practice, establish acceptable qualifications and to oversee conduct of professionals as well as draw demarcation between the qualified and the unqualified (Howard and Donald, 1966). References Abrahamsen, R., and Williams, M. C. (2010). Security beyond the state: Private security in international politics. Cambridge University Press. Borodzicz, E.P. and S. D. Gibson (2006). Corporate Security Education: Towards Meeting the Challenge. Security Journal. 19, pp. 180-195. Brian, R. J. (2004). 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