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72 Police J. 161 (1999)
Towards a Psychology of Surveillance

handle is hein.journals/policejl72 and id is 165 raw text is: MAXWELL TAYLOR, BA, PhD, C.Foren. Psych. Professor, University College Cork, Ireland JOHN HORGON, BA Head of Department Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Ireland KIRAN SARMA, BA Department of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Ireland TOWARDS A PSYCHOLOGY OF SURVEILLANCE Introduction Blendability, the ability of a surveillant to fit in with others in the environment whilst simultaneously and covertly gathering intelligence on the activities of a target, is vital to the success of a surveillance operation. It is suggested that the Attentional Engagement Theory, stressing the importance of similarity relations, provides an ample framework based on scientific findings, to initiate systematic research into the factors effecting blendability. Such a theory does not lend insight into surveillance practices but rather provides a base upon which systematic research into factors effecting blendability can be conducted. Such results would be valuable for surveillance personnel in areas of selection and training. Physical surveillance is defined as the direct visual observation of persons, vehicles, or activity taking place at some given location for the purpose of obtaining information regarding the identity and activities of persons.' Generally, such observation is covert and success is dependent on the surveillants ability to remain unnoticed whilst simultaneously observing the targets actions. The word derives from the French word surveiller meaning to watch over.2 Investigators conducting the surveillance are often referred to as surveillants and the person being surveyed as the subject/target.4 It is important to note that no attempt is made to depict surveillance forms other than those involving the direct physical observation of a subject or a targeted object (as opposed to forms of electronic surveillance). Generally the former requires that the surveillant(s) covertly follow and observe the subject for variable periods of time and may require the use of vehicles and public transport if observation by foot is not feasible. Perception is the direct observation of objects in their environment. Within any perceptual process, three elements have contributing effects on overall judgments. First, the perceiver is the main judgment maker. His/her experiences effect the way he/she views the surrounding The Police Journal April 1999

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