NCJ Number
118400
Date Published
1988
Length
248 pages
Annotation
This book focuses on the signs and symptoms of police stress and effective methods employed in order to prevent burnout.
Abstract
Stress is any demand, either internal, external or both, in order to maintain his sense of balance. Signs and symptoms associated with stress include: excessive weight gain or loss in a short period of time, irritability, excessive perspiration, excessive lateness at work or use of sick leave, frequent use of alcohol, and marital and family disorders. In order to deal effectively with police stress, awareness of the problem must exist and a request for help is needed. Treatment can be in the form of psychological counseling, a change of shift or assignment, or medical referral. The causes, symptoms, and treatment of anxiety and depression are discussed. A crisis is an acute stress situation that is perceived by the individual as a threat to the self and includes: feeling of helplessness, mental confusion, and repression of emotions. This can be caused by a divorce, loss of job, or traumatic injury. All of these conditions are part of the experience of Police Burnout Syndrome. Burnout is the interaction of the combination of (a) pre-existing personality factors, (b) life experiences, (c) psychological needs and expectations and (d) environmental conditions that result in the inability to function effectively in any aspect of one's life, psychological, emotional, social, physical, or occupational. The burnout syndrome is more to be avoided than treated, however, some forms of treatment include counseling, learning new attitudes and skills, and family and peer group support.