NCJ Number
208889
Journal
Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology Volume: 19 Issue: 2 Dated: Fall 2004 Pages: 53-63
Editor(s)
William U. Weiss
Date Published
2004
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study revealed factors within the law enforcement organizational structure which promote ineffective coping and increases in post-traumatic stress disorder among police officers following a critical incident.
Abstract
Prior research indicates that being shot in the line-of-duty or the shooting of a partner are often ranked by officers as the most stressful field events. Prior research also suggests that an understanding of the police organizational culture and the individuals which make up that culture is imperative for understanding the occurrence of stress and trauma in law enforcement. This qualitative and quantitative analysis tested three hypotheses: (1) a majority of officers who are involved in an officer involved shooting practice ineffective emotion-focused coping strategies; (2) the maladaptive coping patterns of officers are perpetuated by the police organization’s response to their shooting incident; and (3) the lack of social support offered by the organization perpetuates a sense of isolation among traumatized officers increasing post-traumatic stress disorder. Interviews were conducted with officers who had been involved in shooting episodes over the past 20 years. The results indicate that a majority of police officers involved in an officer-involved shooting practice more emotion-focused coping strategies than problem-focused coping strategies which could be considered negative. The study provides insight into organizational factors which negate psychological health following a shooting. References