Exploring Your Results

Things to Consider...

Confidence isn’t just about how we see ourselves, it’s shaped by our experiences, environments, and identities. This tool is designed to help you reflect on your own confidence and the factors that influence it. While we don’t ask for personal demographics, we acknowledge that identity plays a role in shaping confidence. Our goal is to provide a resource that helps you assess your own growth and self-perception.

Your scores provide a snapshot of where you stand, but confidence doesn’t exist in isolation. Historically, law enforcement and community justice systems have not functioned equitably for all communities. Marginalized groups have faced over-policing, racial profiling, and disparities in sentencing, which have contributed to deep-rooted mistrust. For instance, past policies like stop-and-frisk disproportionately targeted Black and Brown communities, creating a sense of fear rather than protection. These historical injustices continue to shape how different groups interact with law enforcement today, influencing whether individuals feel confident in seeking justice or protection.

In the present, personal experiences with law enforcement and community justice systems continue to shape confidence in engaging with these institutions. High-profile cases of police brutality, uneven enforcement of laws, and differing treatment based on race, class, or immigration status impact public trust. For example, individuals from communities with frequent negative encounters with law enforcement may hesitate to call the police even in emergencies, fearing escalation or unjust treatment. Conversely, positive community policing initiatives, such as restorative justice programs, can improve trust and confidence in these systems when implemented effectively.

At an individual level, confidence in law enforcement is shaped by direct and indirect experiences. Someone who has grown up witnessing unjust policing may develop a sense of vigilance or skepticism, while another person with positive interactions may feel more assured in seeking assistance. Media portrayals, community discussions, and personal encounters all play a role in shaping whether an individual feels safe, seen, and heard within the justice system. This tool is designed to help you reflect on your own perspective, while recognizing the broader historical and societal influences at play.