NCJ Number
71033
Journal
Police Magazine Dated: (July 1980) Pages: 17-23
Date Published
1980
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Of the more than 100 police officers who kill people in the line of duty each year in the U.S., psychologists say that almost all will suffer reactions that include nightmares, flashbacks, and severe depression.
Abstract
Typically, such officers become more introspective about their roles as public servants, less aggressive in their work, and may develop strained family relationships. Flashbacks and nightmares may occur, at least in the first days after the shooting. Drinking may become a problem. Because most police officers are moral, conscientious individuals, they react very strongly, according to the Director of Behavioral Sciences Services for the Los Angeles Police Department. The reaction may depend on such circumstances of the shooting as proximity to the suspect; whether or not the officer was in danger; and the officer's age, background, and religion. Individual officers describe nightmares, crying and drinking spells, the strain of experiencing special respect from their colleagues, and a sense of isolation. In addition, officers who have used deadly force may find themselves before grand juries and even trial courts on homicide charges. Some officers find consolation in religion or in talking to another officer who has had the same experience. Psychologists also suggest confidential contact with a psychologist or psychiatrist within 24 hours for all officers involved in shootings, 3 days of paid administrative leave following the incident, and temporary off-the-street assignment. Yet even with counseling, time off, and administrative support, an officer may not be able to deal with the fact that he has killed. Actual cases of police homicides are used to convey the officers' dilemmas.