NCJ Number
82975
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 51 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1982) Pages: 6-11
Date Published
1982
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the marital problems of law enforcement personnel and offers positive approaches for improving the quality of these relationships.
Abstract
Although it is commonly believed that the divorce rate in police marriages is higher than in other occupations, a review of the literature fails to confirm this claim. It is estimated that during the 1980's, 40 to 60 percent of all marriages will end in divorce, and law enforcement divorces are not higher than this statistic. Positive steps can be taken to improve the marital relationship among law enforcement personnel. Taking the time for meaningful communication with the spouse on a daily basis is the primary method of ensuring a satisfactory relationship. Communication is vital because thoughts, values, wants, and feelings change over the years; lack of communication can cause couples to become strangers to one another. In addition, the spouse's attitude should reflect the belief that the relationship is important and can be successful. Nurturing a relationship can be difficult when dealing with a police officer who is in a position of telling others what to do at work and continues this behavior at home. Problems also arise when officers treat their spouse's activities as less important than their own. Sharing enjoyable activities with the spouse and maintaining communication will allow each person to grow and will strengthen the marital relationship. One footnote and two photographs are provided.