NCJ Number
85934
Journal
National Sheriff Dated: (June-July 1982) Pages: 6-10
Date Published
1982
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The article reviews stress management in law enforcement with respect to the nature of the stress reaction, the self-monitoring of physiological and psychological reactions, and the techniques of dealing with stress.
Abstract
All stressors increase the demand for readjustment. The mind must perceive the event as a stressor if the event is to be stressful. Physical reactions to stress include flaring nostrils, dilation of the pupils, an increased heart beat and blood pressure, faster breathing rate, and coldness in the hands. These changes result from a flood of chemicals which prepare the body for fight or flight. Police officers cannot flee and thus direct all their energy toward the fight response. The three stages of response to stress are the alert stage, the resistance stage, and the exhaustion stage. A person cannot eliminate stress reactions but can and must monitor them. Through training, a person can reduce the duration of the general adaptation syndrome. It is also possible to develop intentional reactions to stress. For example, inhaling smoothly through the nose and slowly exhaling throught the nose helps the person regain control over breathing. Police officers should also clarify how they want to handle a situation before approaching it. For example, a police officer may intentionally mimic a citizen's voice level or tone or may completely change the subject in order to calm the citizen. Police officers also need personalized methods for becoming physically, emotionally, and mentally relaxed. The use of relaxation techniques creates greater feelings of rest than does sleep. Police officers are constantly confronted with strong emotions and must take charge of their bodies so as to deal positively and proactively with stress. Ten references are listed.