What Law Enforcement Leaders Can Do to Mitigate Occupational Stress

Abstract

This chapter synthesizes the peer-reviewed literature and practitioner perspectives on how law enforcement occupational stressors significantly impact individual officers, their agencies, and the communities they serve. There is a clear connection between officer well-being and public safety, with both police agencies and communities benefitting from having healthy officers. Modern-day police leaders recognize the importance of maintaining a physically and mentally healthy workforce and feel ethically responsible for addressing occupational stress among their staff. A systematic literature search was conducted using Google Scholar, ERIC, and the ProQuest Criminal Justice Database. This chapter shows how organizational, operational, and personal factors, such as the work environment and external support systems, play a role in contributing to or worsening occupational stress in law enforcement. In addition, the chapter includes a discussion on research-based strategies that police leaders might find beneficial to reduce officer stressors in the workplace. By implementing these research-based strategies, law enforcement leaders can foster a healthier and more resilient workforce, thereby reducing the adverse effects of occupational stress on their officers and enhancing overall well-being and effectiveness within the law enforcement community. Understanding the root cause of workplace stressors may help promote a healthier workforce.

1. Introduction

From the moment cadets begin training in a police academy to their day-to-day duties, patrolling our communities, they face responsibilities that demand quick decision-making, creative problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. The nature of their work exposes them to stress, emotional strain, and potential danger [1]. Police officers regularly undergo training to handle high-stress scenarios, such as domestic disputes, abuse involving children and older adults, motor vehicle accidents, and dangerous and violent situations.

Even when off-duty, police officers face challenges, such as missing important family events like birthdays and dinners due to shift work and demanding schedules. The occupational stress experienced in police work can have various personal and professional consequences.

2. What does the literature say about police stress?

The body of literature and research concerning police stress is substantial, and this article explores three distinct global perspectives on the subject. Firstly, a study in Italy delves into occupational stress and examines stress levels and anxiety experienced by officers in a large metropolitan police agency [2]. Secondly, scholars from the University of Toronto investigate the impact of stress and trauma on officer wellness in Canada [3]. Lastly, American researchers explore various factors influencing stress levels among law enforcement officers in New York State [4]. These three studies contribute valuable insights into the complex issue of police stress from different geographic contexts. I searched scholarly articles using the keywords resiliency, coping, and stress, and the articles concerning police stress in Italy, resiliency in Canada, and coping in New York were the leading articles for their respective topics.

2.1 Police stress in Italy

In a research article published in an occupational medicine journal, Universita di Tornio, researchers studied police stress, anxiety, and coping strategies. They found a significant relationship between occupational stress among law enforcement officers and the deterioration of their psychological health and social well-being [2]. The researchers utilized questionnaires and, a Distress Thermometer, a stress rating scale, to collect stress data, identify stressors, and assess coping mechanisms among 617 Italian police officers.

Interestingly, a different study revealed variations in stress levels between male and female officers [5]. Men tended to experience more organizational stress, while women reported higher operational stress levels; however, despite the challenges faced by both genders, both groups demonstrated effective stress-coping strategies [2, 5]. The researchers concluded that proper training and support are crucial for police officers to manage their work demands effectively. Furthermore, they highlighted that factors like gender, position, and assignment play a role in the specific stressors encountered by officers in the field.

2.2 Resiliency in Canada

In 2015, a scholarly article in a law enforcement journal focused on police resiliency and investigated the relationship between training and resilience among 297 law enforcement officers in British Columbia, Canada [3]. The researchers specifically explored how mental preparedness techniques could help mitigate the stressors faced by officers and the positive impact of these techniques on both officers and policymakers.

The study found that exposure to stress could lead to trauma for officers, with potential physical and psychological consequences. To address this issue effectively, the researchers emphasized the importance of a proactive approach in dealing with potential stress. They highlighted that promoting mental preparedness before stress occurs is more effective than treating its effects afterward. By investing in mental preparedness techniques and adopting a proactive approach, law enforcement agencies can enhance officers’ resilience, promote their overall well-being, and better manage stress in their profession.

2.3 Coping in New York

In 2018, the police and practice research journal published an article by the Routledge Taylor and Francis Group, which examined the work-stress axis among police officers [4]. For this study, researchers collected data from 594 peace officers representing 21 law enforcement agencies in New York state. The aim was to identify the factors that contribute to officer stress.

The study revealed that various variables, including demographics, education level, rank, tenure, and internal and external factors, influenced occupational stress in police officers. Additionally, the presence of support systems and accumulated stress over time were significant factors. Moreover, researchers discovered that pre-existing physical, mental, and emotional conditions and a lack of a support system impacted stress levels.

Interestingly, the study found that law enforcement agencies that offered counseling services positively influenced how officers coped with stress. These services resulted in improved well-being and resilience among officers. The researchers concluded that police officers who utilized stress-coping techniques were more effective in reducing and managing stress.

3. What do others say about police stress?

Several other sources offer anecdotal and data-driven evidence regarding police stress. Notably, information from web sources is considerable, and an analysis of three web-based articles from reputable professional sources offers perspective.

3.1 Healthy officers equal healthy communities

First, a publication from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) studied officer wellness [6]. The IACP and their contributing partners concluded that healthy officers in healthy communities are interrelated. The study showed that policies such as wellness training, fitness programs, and peer support help officers adopt healthy lifestyles and mitigate occupational stress.

3.2 Stress and mental and physical axis

In 2008, a study conducted by the University of Buffalo and published on ScienceDaily.com revealed that law enforcement officers face significant pressures, which can be precursors to various physical and mental health complications, including heart disease and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) [7]. The study also cited findings from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), which indicated that officers above 40 years of age are at a higher risk of experiencing cardiac issues due to the unpredictable and dangerous nature of police work, which can be psychologically demanding.

Similar to the study in British Columbia, the researchers at the University of Buffalo concluded that early intervention could aid officers in effectively handling the stressors associated with policing. Early intervention might help limit the physical and psychological damage caused by traumatic experiences. Researchers identified mental preparedness techniques as valuable tools for assisting officers in dealing with stress. Such techniques involve visualizing preparation measures and reducing the impact of critical events and incidents on their well-being.

In another article by Michelle L. Beshears, Ph.D., titled “How Police Can Reduce and Manage Stress,” various types and causes of work-related and individual stressors are highlighted, including factors like poor management, shift work, and changes in duties [8]. The article delves into the consequences of stress, such as PTSD, reduced efficiency, and physical health problems, while emphasizing the importance of implementing stress reduction and management strategies for law enforcement officers.

4. Mindfulness-based resilience training: perspective from a career law enforcement professional

In writing this chapter, I consciously addressed potential biases through accepted mitigation strategies like critical reflection and opening up an inquiry [9, 10]. My professional background and academic experience provided me with the necessary skills to collect, analyze, and synthesize data for this chapter, aiming to offer valuable insights and information to learners, law enforcement practitioners, and scholars alike. While I strived to maintain objectivity in my writing, I also wanted to share the perspectives gained from decades of law enforcement experience.

Based on my professional insights, I firmly believe that police occupational stress is influenced by a combination of organizational, operational, and personal factors and that there is a clear correlation between officer wellness and their ability to provide effective public safety services. Drawing from my own experiences and understanding of the stresses and stressors outlined in the article “A Qualitative Investigation of the Experience of Mindfulness Training Among Police Officers [11],” which examined acute and chronic stressors inherent in police work, I believe the quality of intervention in mental health and wellness programs is paramount. Anecdotally, I see how the implications of that study’s findings could support advocating for wellness policies and programs within the law enforcement community. Police executives have a moral and legal responsibility to safeguard their employees and provide a safe working environment. By implementing these policies and programs, not only will officers benefit, but they will also have a positive impact on the communities they serve.

4.1 What is mindfulness-based resilience training?

In the article “A Qualitative Investigation of the Experience of Mindfulness Training Among Police Officers [11],” published in the Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology, researchers studied the acute and chronic stressors commonly associated with police work. The study’s primary objective was to qualitatively evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based resilience training (MBRT) as a coping mechanism for police officers. The study sample consisted of five police officers with an average of 16.8 years of police service, representing diverse backgrounds, including three White officers, one African American officer, and one Pacific Islander officer. The sample also encompassed various ranks, with three line-level officers, one lieutenant, and one captain from four police agencies.

4.2 Research design and data collection

Researchers [11] employed semi-structured interviews as their study’s primary data collection method. They utilized research assistants to audio-record and transcribed these interviews accurately. The interview questions were thoughtfully designed by the researchers to comprehensively explore various conceptual themes and areas of interest related to the assessment of police officers who underwent MBRT as a means to manage their stress.

To ensure a thorough examination of the data, the researchers collaborated with a subject matter expert, a police lieutenant, who helped incorporate subthemes within each interview prompt. This expert input added valuable insights and perspectives from someone who deeply understands the law enforcement context.

Furthermore, researchers [11] used coding schemes and triangulation techniques to enhance the reliability and validity of their findings. By integrating diverse sources and theoretical perspectives, they aimed to strengthen the overall robustness of their work. Triangulation involves cross-verifying findings from different data sources or methods, which helps validate the results and increase the study’s credibility.

4.3 Analysis and results

In their analysis, researchers [11] explored several themes derived from the data, including the impact of dedicated practice space, improved family communication, enhanced well-being, and strengthened camaraderie among the participants. To conduct the analysis, the researchers utilized coding and sub-coding techniques, identifying various codes they categorized in their study.

The identified codes included aspects such as the most helpful and least helpful elements of MBRT, the obstacles encountered, and how participants overcame those challenges. Additionally, they analyzed the impact of MBRT on intra- and interpersonal functioning, the benefits experienced by participants from MBRT, and the suggested strategies for improving stress mitigation.

Researchers [11] provided specific quotes from the participants to support their findings and add depth to their qualitative results. The researchers concluded that although preliminary, the qualitative outcomes of their study were consistent with previous quantitative research concerning the psychological and physiological effects of MBRT in mitigating police occupational stress. They emphasized that their findings further support the utility and acceptability of MBRT, especially in improving intra- and interpersonal functioning, highlighting the benefits of MBRT and offering strategies for effectively managing stress among police officers.

4.3.1 Further research

Indeed, further research exploring the relationship between police occupational stress and its impact on psychological health and social welfare could significantly contribute to the existing literature. Using the researchers’ [11] work as a framework, future research could delve deeper into understanding how prolonged exposure to stressors in police work can affect officers’ mental well-being and overall social functioning.

A study into anxiety and coping strategies in occupational police stress [2] offers valuable insights into this area, identifying the link between police occupational stress and the decline of mental health and social well-being. The researchers’ examination of stress differences between male and female officers highlights the importance of considering gender-specific stressors and coping mechanisms within the law enforcement community.

Further research in this direction could explore additional factors that influence the experience of occupational stress among police officers and examine how different types of support, such as departmental training and various forms of peer and familial support, contribute to officers’ ability to cope with the rigors and stressors of their profession.

By expanding on these findings and conducting more in-depth investigations, researchers can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the implications of police occupational stress and potentially identify effective strategies for promoting the well-being and resilience of law enforcement officers. Such research could ultimately lead to the development of targeted interventions and policies to support the mental health and social welfare of police officers, enhancing the overall effectiveness of law enforcement agencies and their ability to serve their communities.

4.3.2 Threats to validity

Researchers in the MBRT study [11] utilized triangulation to enhance their study’s reliability and validity. However, one potential challenge to the study’s validity when employing triangulation is the presence of reactivity on the part of the researchers. Reactivity refers to the potential impact researchers may have on their study’s subject and the participants themselves [12]. The article did not address how the researchers and research assistants addressed or minimized possible risks or biases, such as reactivity, that could influence the study’s results. Including such information might have provided greater transparency regarding the researchers’ methods and efforts to ensure the study’s integrity.

5. What does this all mean?

Mitigating occupational stress in law enforcement is of paramount importance for several compelling reasons:

1. Officer Well-being: Police officers face unique stressors and challenges, which can affect their mental and physical well-being. By addressing and reducing occupational stress, law enforcement agencies can promote their officers’ overall health and resilience, ensuring they are better equipped to handle the demands of their job [13].

2. Performance and Effectiveness: High-stress levels can impair an officer’s decision-making abilities, critical thinking skills, and overall performance. By mitigating stress, law enforcement agencies can improve the effectiveness of their officers in carrying out their duties, leading to better outcomes in various situations [13].

3. Public Safety: Stressful situations can influence officers’ behaviors and reactions, potentially affecting their interactions with the public. By managing occupational stress, law enforcement agencies can enhance community relations and ensure officers respond to incidents with a clear and composed mindset, ultimately improving public safety [6, 14, 15].

4. Reducing Burnout and Turnover: Excessive occupational stress can contribute to burnout and job dissatisfaction among police officers. Proactively addressing stress can help retain experienced officers, reducing turnover rates and ensuring a more stable and experienced workforce [16].

5. Mental Health and Resilience: Police work exposes officers to traumatic incidents, leading to the risk of developing mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By implementing stress mitigation strategies, law enforcement agencies can build resilience in their officers and provide support to cope with the emotional toll of their profession [7].

6. Workforce Morale: A work environment that addresses occupational stress and prioritizes officer well-being fosters higher morale among officers. This positive atmosphere can increase job satisfaction and create a more cohesive and supportive team [14].

7. Legal and Ethical Implications: High stress levels can impact an officer’s ability to uphold legal and ethical standards. By managing stress effectively, law enforcement agencies can ensure that their officers maintain the highest professionalism and adherence to the law [14].

In summary, mitigating occupational stress in law enforcement is essential for maintaining officers’ physical and mental well-being, enhancing their performance and effectiveness, improving public safety, reducing burnout and turnover, building resilience, boosting workforce morale, and upholding legal and ethical standards. By prioritizing officer well-being and implementing stress reduction measures, law enforcement agencies can create a healthier, more effective police force that better serves and protects their communities.

6. Conclusion

Organizational, operational, and personal factors significantly affect the occupational stress of law enforcement officers. Research has highlighted a positive correlation between improved public safety and the well-being of officers. Implementing police wellness policies and programs has positively impacted the officers, their agencies, and the communities they serve. From an ethical standpoint, employers, including police leaders, have a moral obligation to ensure the health and safety of their workforce, as emphasized in the article “Ruthless Exploiters or Ethical Guardians of the Workforce? Powerful CEOs and their Impact on Workplace Safety and Health [14],” published by the Journal of Business Ethics.

While providing a reasonably safe working environment through wellness policies is essential, police leaders also face balancing this obligation with the associated costs. The financial burden of implementing such policies can be significant, leading to a cost conundrum for law enforcement agencies. However, proper budgeting and reaching out to philanthropic organizations and corporations can help offset some of these financial burdens [16].

Modern-day police leaders must recognize the importance of mitigating occupational stress among their officers. Establishing effective wellness programs can provide officers with the necessary tools and support to cope with the stressors of their profession, leading to a healthier and more resilient workforce that can better serve and protect their communities. Balancing the cost considerations with the commitment to officer well-being and public safety remains a critical responsibility for police leaders as they strive to create a positive and supportive work environment for their personnel.

The literature on police stress highlights that occupational stress concerns law enforcement leaders, line-level officers, and the community. Coping strategies to mitigate stressors vary depending on each law enforcement agency’s specific programs and policies [1]. Based on the existing literature and my professional experience, several research-based strategies appear to be beneficial for police leaders to consider implementing to reduce officer stressors in the workplace:

1. Formal Fitness and Wellness Programs: Implementing structured physical fitness and wellness programs can significantly decrease the risk of job-related physical and mental health issues for first responders, including police officers [17]. Studies have shown that organizations with such programs achieve better health-related outcomes than those without them, as evidenced by a systematic review of health promotion intervention studies in law enforcement [12].

2. Wellness Policies: Enacting wellness and self-care policies that address social support and promote healthy lifestyles is critical to fostering an effective and healthy workforce. Quantitative and qualitative studies have demonstrated that wellness policies can reduce occupational risk, stress, and unhealthy behaviors among police officers [13]. Thus, incorporating wellness policies throughout the law enforcement community is a promising strategy to mitigate officer stress.

3. Family Support: Acknowledging family members’ crucial role in stress management for police officers is vital. Unstable family support can lead to work-family conflicts, negatively impacting an officer’s physical and mental well-being [16]. While officers are trained to handle such situations, research indicates that strong familial support can alleviate conflicts between work and family life [12, 17]. Therefore, it is reasonable for law enforcement leaders to develop policies and programs that incorporate familial support to help improve officer stress.

By implementing these research-based strategies, law enforcement leaders can foster a healthier and more resilient workforce, thereby reducing the adverse effects of occupational stress on their officers and enhancing overall well-being and effectiveness within the law enforcement community.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.