Coping, Stress and Suicide Ideation in the South African Police Service in Gauteng Province

• NCJ Number: 219066
• Journal: Acta Criminologica Volume: 17 Issue: 2 Dated: 2004 Pages: 17-33
• Author(s): C. Swanepoel; J. Pienaar
• Date Published: 2004
• Length: 17 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: South Africa
• Note: Downloaded July 3, 2007. To access the full text PDF: 1) select the provided PDF link; 2) from the Acta Criminologica Web site, select "Table of Contents"; 3) select the corresponding Volume and Issue (see the NCJRS abstract record for the exact Volume and Issue); 4) scroll the Table of Contents to the exact article; and 5) click on the "full text" icon.

Annotation

Following a literature review of research on the nature and causes of police occupational stress as well as coping strategies related to suicidal thoughts (ideation), this paper reports on the methodology and findings of a study of coping, stress, and suicide ideation among officers of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng Province.

Abstract

The study found that the variables related to suicide ideation in SAPS officers in Gauteng Province were a previous suicide attempt, having been previously charged under the SAPS disciplinary code, and the use of passive coping strategies. Seeking emotional support from friends and relatives in order to cope with stress was negatively related to suicide ideation. On the other hand, officers who avoided dealing with stressors, practiced rigid self-control, and focused on suppressing emotional reactions to problems were more likely to show high levels of suicide ideation. The authors propose an indepth investigation into the how and why of the disciplinary process of the SAPS, in order to develop recommendations that will improve the process. Attention should be given to the effects of the procedure before, during, and after an officer is charged. A suicide prevention project should be regularly implemented in order to provide training in constructive stress management, debriefing, life skills, and sensitivity to colleagues. Other organizational measures that can reduce stress and poor stress-management strategies are the raising of officer salaries, improvement in personnel and equipment resources, and motivational enhancements. The study sample (n=266) consisted of uniformed police officers. They were administered four questionnaires: the Adult Suicide Ideation Questionnaire, the Coping Orientations to Problems Experience Questionnaire, the Police Stress Inventory, and a Biographical Questionnaire. 5 tables and 76 references