Suicide and Indirect Self-Destruction Behavior Among Police (From Psychological Services for Law Enforcement, P 413-417, 1986, J Reese and H A Goldstein, eds. - See NCJ-104098)

• NCJ Number: 104123
• Author(s): S W Allen
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 5 pages
• Corporate Author: US Dept of Justice; US Dept of Justice
• Sale Source: Superintendent of Documents, GPO; National Institute of Justice/NCJRS; National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: For microfiche, see NCJ-104098.

Annotation

This discussion of the characteristics of suicidal police officers focuses on indirect self-destructive behavior (ISDB), and suggested intervention strategies are designed to help the suicidal officer control the physical expression of the internal turmoil manifested as suicidal ideation and behaviors.

Abstract

ISDB involves potentially punitive risk taking not rationally connected to positive achievement. ISDB is a readily available behavioral option for emotionally disturbed police officers, since risk taking is often part of the job. The risk taking becomes ISDB for police officers when it is compulsive and associated with depression. ISDB is risk taking not rationally related to the achievement of policing goals. Other characteristics of the suicidal officer are unexpressed high dependency needs, low self-esteem, and social isolation. Signs of suicidal intent are the making of a will, giving away personal items, and overt instances of ISDB. Treatment for a suicidal officer should include support and affection from family and friends along with professional crisis intervention that helps the suicidal officer think rationally about coping with stress and problems, developing more effective adaptive strategies, and improving social relationships. Police agencies should obtain the services of a mental health professional skilled in identifying suicidal persons and in performing crisis intervention on their behalf. 23 references.