THE CULTURE OF APPEARANCE AMONG LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS (A LITTLE-KNOWN PAGE OF MILITIA HISTORY IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN POLICING)

Abstract

The article deals with the issues of the appearance culture of law enforcement officers in
the historical and legal aspect, as well as the current approaches to this problem. The author
presents an archival document for the first time in a scientific context. The document is the
order of the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Ukrainian SSR from April 15, 1961, titled “On
measures to improve the appearance of personnel”. It is subjected to a comprehensive analysis
and evaluation from the standpoint of modern Ukrainian policing.
The results of numerous studies clearly indicate that the image of a police officer is
predominantly associated with the male gender in the public imagination. However, recent
developments have brought about notable shifts. There has been a notable increase in the
number of women joining the police force. This process is understandable and logical
process, yet the intricate challenges associated with it should be given due consideration by
the scientific community.
The article notes that the fundamental prerequisite for a law enforcement officer is a
professional appearance and adherence to a prescribed dress code. Nevertheless, the wearing
of uniforms in any context is a matter of great urgency for women, largely because they
are keen to adhere to prevailing fashion trends and thereby accentuate their femininity
using tasteful attire and accessories. Investigations conducted by Cherkashyna, A. and
Cherkashyn, V. have shown that external attractiveness and material components (clothes,
jewelry, and cosmetics) are significant in the structure of body image for girls of early
adolescence. It is important to note that at the stage of maturity, the material component of
the physical self-image, although losing its crucial importance, remains quite relevant in the
structure of a woman's self-awareness. Therefore, the impossibility of its realization leads to
a violation of self-pleasure and can deepen the course of age and professional crises, disrupt

self-attitude, lead to the formation of professional destruction, and so forth. Further research
and appropriate regulation are required with regard to tattoos and piercings, and this should
be extended to both men and women. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to consider foreign
experiences in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.
As indicated in the study, concerns pertaining to the appearance culture of law enforcement
personnel have been a long-standing issue. However, there have been varying degrees
of awareness and approaches to addressing this matter across different time periods. In a
democratic society, approaches are developed with input from all relevant parties, including
law enforcement and the general public, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach
that reflects the interests of all stakeholders. The ongoing improvement of mechanisms for
fostering a positive image of police officers is a necessary condition for enhancing social trust.
Keywords: appearance culture, law enforcement officer, policeman, professionalism,
image, order of the Minister of Internal Affairs.