Final answer:
An officer who uses excessive force can face legal action and punishment. This is in line with the principles of procedural justice and formal sanctions, which are used to ensure individuals in positions of authority do not abuse their power.
Step-by-step explanation:
An officer who uses excessive force may be subject to legal action and/or punishment. This is because the role of the police is to enforce laws and public order while respecting the rights and dignity of individuals. Officers are expected to use force only when necessary and in a proportionate manner. When they deviate from this standard and use excessive force, they violate the principles of legitimate authority and potentially the law. Scenarios like the arrests of Rodney King and George Floyd show that officers can face legal consequences for their actions. The importance of procedural justice is emphasized to ensure the fairness of processes and outcomes in these situations.
The relationship between sanctions and behaviour is significant in this context. Formal sanctions are the official methods of recognizing and addressing norm violations. If a person in authority, such as a police officer, abuses their power, legal repercussions such as arrest, trial, and potential conviction are forms of negative sanctions designed to deter such behaviour and uphold societal norms.