NCJ Number
103238
Date Published
1987
Length
5 pages
Annotation
To examine the impact of a police officer's death on the spouse and parents questionnaires (in some cases interviews) were administered to 126 survivors.
Abstract
Results show that the impact of the loss is often so profound as to be diagnosed as posttraumatic stress disorder. Symptoms include concentration difficulties, sleep disturbances, feelings of detachment, and guilt about surviving. Relatives of slain police officers often endured psychological distress for long periods, and they often did not discuss their problems or seek help because they were embarassed or believed only other members of the police culture could understand their problems. While spouses' levels of distress did not vary as a function of the manner of death, officers' parents were more traumatized when the fatality was homicidal rather than accidental. While 91 percent of police departments offered information on benefits and compensation, only 58 percent had a psychological unit, and 67 percent lacked formal policies for dealing with the death of a police officer. Survivors' level of distress was affected by departmental response. By having clearcut policies on notification procedures, psychological services, emotional support, and benefit information, departments can help survivors better cope with ther loss. 5 notes.