NCJ Number
96835
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 58 Issue: 1 Dated: (January-March 1985) Pages: 73-80
Date Published
1985
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study of three groups of British police officers -- probationary constables, station sergeants, and senior officers -- clearly demonstrates that police officers of different ranks experience different stressors.
Abstract
The sample consisted of 75 constables who had almost finished their 2-year probationary period, 33 recently promoted station sergeants, and 79 senior officers. All completed the 45-item Situation Stress Inventory. Long hours and shift work were common occupational stressors. Having to do riot control duties and give evidence in court were perceived as moderately stressful. The constables and sergeants appeared highly anxious about their qualifying examinations. Most sergeants had the added burden of highly stressful work overloads. Overall, senior officers reported less stress than the lower ranks but seemed more anxious about long hours and work overload. Some occupational demands, such as giving evidence in court and having to deal with messy car accidents and mutilated bodies, appeared to become less stressful with experience. Senior officers' reporting less stress may be attributed to a greater reluctance to admit stress, better coping mechanisms, or the stress scale not containing items relevant to senior officers' duties. These findings suggest that organization changes are most likely to reduce stress among senior officers; whereas, improved training may benefit junior officers. Tables and 13 references are supplied.