Expert: Michael Troy - 4/6/2009

Question
Hi, this has become a recurring scene now.  A female officer that has come into contact with me several times in my apt. complex.  Every time she has asked me, "How is your day going?".  I don't really mind so much... but wonder why this is becoming constant.  There are many days my mood is not "chipper".  Is she asking out of sincerity or is to probe?  I have nothing to hide except my own private thoughts and feelings.  I carry no disrespect to the law officers in my city.  I am 50+ yrs old, hence life has etched its touch on me in many ways.  I strive for tolerance and harmony in my life.  She seems much younger than me.. I'm wondering if this is subtle aggression and profiling.  I have come to expect the same question by now whenever we meet.  For my self, I like to respect peoples' personal and private space.  What's going on here?  I feel reluctant to ask her why she needs to know, or why she always asks.  Is this normal behavior on her part?  I pay allot of money for my apt., the only probable cause I can imagine is a stressed old bachelors' messy living space =)

Answer
Hi Jon,

I wouldn't read too much into her questions.  Officers often try to engage with people they see in order to develop a good relationship with them.  Part of this is trying to take an interest in people's lives.  This is a part of community policing so that people will feel more comfortable coming to them should the need arise.  You need not engage with her if you do not wish.  You can answer with a single work like "fine" and then smile and move on.  No need to engage in extensive conversation if you do not like.

I hope this helps!
- Mike