NCJ Number
197085
Date Published
2002
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses the impact of traumatic incidents, with a focus on officer-involved shootings, on individual police officers, police departments, and the community, with recommendations offered to assist those affected by such incidents.
Abstract
Researchers have estimated that at least 600 police officers shoot and kill people in the line of duty each year in the United States. In addition to deadly force, there are wounding situations, officers held at gunpoint, and various other traumatic experiences. There are two factors that determine the degree of emotional difficulty an officer will experience after a shooting incident: the officer's psychological background or personality variables and the intensity of the imminent danger. Actual cases analyzed by the Massachusetts State Police Stress Unit indicate that officers involved in shooting episodes frequently experience time distortion; flashbacks, dreams, and nightmares; fear of insanity; delayed reactions; litigation problems; and departmental support. Research and experience indicate that the effects of such traumatic incidents extend into the personal and professional lives of the involved officers. Timely and effective attention for officers following traumatic incidents can significantly reduce the damaging effects. It is important that the involved officer receive personal support, attention, and appropriate help in coping with the trauma. Since society has seen fit to arm police with lethal weapons, police agencies must not only provide guidelines for the appropriate use of such weapons but also have clear guidelines and sufficient resources available to help officers deal with the ramifications of having to use their weapons. 12 references