Police stress: history, contributing factors, symptoms, and interventions

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the stressors involved in an occupation at potential risk – the profession of law enforcement.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the history of police stress studies. It describes prevention and treatment programs that have unfortunately not been sufficiently utilized because of the police culture.

Findings

The documented symptoms of stress include digestive orders, cardiovascular diseas, alcoholism, domestic violence, post‐traumatic stress disorder, depression and suicide. While some police officers start their careers in excellent physical health, some retire early or even die from job‐related stress disorders if the cumulative impact of stress exacts its toll.

Originality/value

The paper offers a description of COP.2.COP a confidential hotline for officers and their families staffed by retired officers and licensed professionals.

Citation

Waters, J.A. and Ussery, W. (2007), "Police stress: history, contributing factors, symptoms, and interventions", Policing: An International Journal, Vol. 30 No. 2, pp. 169-188. https://doi.org/10.1108/13639510710753199