Camera surveillance and violence: The importance of camera surveillance for groups exposed to violence

Violence against professional groups who perform work tasks in the public interest has been recognized as a serious social problem. To tackle this issue and enhance workplace safety, various forms of camera surveillance - most often CCTV and body worn cameras - have been highly recommended.

The purpose of this project is to examine the impact of CCTV and body worn cameras on exposure to violence and use of force among three occupational groups: police, social workers, and public transport inspectors.

The project poses the following research questions:

• In what contexts is camera surveillance perceived as a guarantee of security and safety at work and in what contexts is it perceived as a problem or obstacle?
• How do the occupational groups manage camera surveillance, to what extent does camera surveillance shape work practice, and what are the differences between the occupational groups in this respect?
• How does camera surveillance impact the interaction between officials and citizens in conflictual situations where violence might occur?

The project problematizes the common assumption that surveillance creates docility and obedience. Via interviews, observation, and analysis of documents and filmed material from violent situations, the project aims to develop theory better adapted to the experiences of the occupational groups. The findings are expected to provide a multifaceted understanding of how cameras contribute to regulating human conduct in violent situations.