It is important to know the formal guidelines one must go through to become a police officer, but it is almost as important to understand the informal requirements embedded in the police subculture. Understanding the hazards, stresses and obstacles one will face as an officer is critical before you commit to the force.
Police officers often view the public as hostile and untrustworthy and therefore find themselves forming strong bonds with each other for mutual understanding and support. Officers must trust and depend on each other for protection, advice and friendship.
Officers have an extra strong bond because their job puts their personal safety on the line everyday. Many civilians do not want to have an encounter with the police. This can lead to a sense of isolation and alienation on the behalf of the officers who come to believe people don’t appreciate them or the work they do.
These issues can add much stress and distress to an officer over a period of time. Having to watch your back constantly takes its toll on many officers. Many officers experience burnout or emotional exhaustion from their job.
One stress that most normal people don’t have to think about is the stress of potentially getting shot at or having to shoot somebody. Job-related injuries are frequent and it is always at the front of an officer’s mind.
This course provides an in-depth look at the police system by examining the police subculture and the pressures and stresses of police work, including the dangers, and dealing with the potential burnout.
By the end of this course, students will be able to define the following concepts: subculture, danger, police personality, cynicism, task demands, role demands, interpersonal demands, burnout and suicide.