NCJ Number
220552
Journal
International Journal of Police Science & Management Volume: 9 Issue: 3 Dated: Autumn 2007 Pages: 274-286
Date Published
2007
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study examined longitudinally the changing rates of high-risk alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking habits among a nationally representative sample of Australian police officers.
Abstract
The investigation suggests that the proportion of Australian police officers who consume alcohol at high rates has probably declined in recent years. On the other hand, tobacco consumption among them has remained relatively stable, with around one-fifth of Australian police still smoking in 2004-2005. Law enforcement is clearly a high-stress occupation when compared with other jobs, and the impact of workplace issues continues to influence lifestyle factors beyond the work environment. This unique facet ensures that alcohol and tobacco consumption will remain an important occupational health issue for police management in future years. This will require additional research and management efforts to focus on the continued reduction of these detrimental lifestyle factors. Police officers occupy an important position in the community, as they are expected to be role models for appropriate public behavior. This inherent responsibility includes sensible alcohol and tobacco consumption habits, as well as enforcing liquor licensing and tobacco regulations in most areas. However, police officers and management are put in a difficult situation regarding occupational health, as lifestyle factors can and will be heavily influenced by the unique demands of law enforcement work. This study offers a look into national alcohol and tobacco consumption habits among Australian police, and a unique insight into the progression of drinking and smoking trends within this specific population over the past 15 years. Data for this study were obtained during four National Health Surveys conducted between 1989 and 2005. Figures, tables, references