NCJ Number
114081
Date Published
1987
Length
109 pages
Annotation
Futures research methodologies were used to examine the role of fitness programs in police agencies by the year 2000.
Abstract
A literature review revealed the existence of a wide variety of programs designed to address the mental and physical stress of the police environment. Interviews with authors of some of these articles and discussions with a variety of professionals suggested that the national interest in fitness is being accompanied by evidence that police officers' health is deteriorating. The analysis led to the development of three future scenarios. The most optimistic scenario suggested fitness in the police work force, based on mandated fitness standards as a condition of police employment. Specific steps a police department would use in implementing a fitness program were identified, with emphasis on incentives protecting job security for existing employees and contractual requirements for new hires. Figures, appended methodological information, and 21 references.