The following statement is true or false: Currently, most police agencies resemble military units because discretionary decision making by police officers is subject to direct observation by a supervisor.

• A. False
• B. Not enough information
• C. True
• D. Both true and false

Answer: (C)

Supervision and the chain of command shape police work in a way that makes discretionary decisions feel tightly controlled. When officers exercise discretion on patrol—choices about whether to stop, detain, issue a citation, use force, or pursue a particular course of action—that decision is often observed, reviewed, and influenced by a supervisor. Field supervisors, roll calls, after-action reviews, and policy guidance create a culture of accountability and conformity to standard procedures. This environment emphasizes rank, obedience to orders, and centralized decision-making, which mirrors a military-style unit more than a highly autonomous civilian organization. While not every department is identical and some have more civilian oversight or flexibility, the general pattern is a heavily supervised, hierarchical structure that makes police work resemble a military unit in its approach to discretion and control.