Police suicide: prevalence, risk, and protective factors

Mark H. Chae · Douglas J. Boyle

135 citations0/0 files storedPolicing An International Journal

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Suicide and Self-Harm Studies Policing Practices and Perceptions Stress and Burnout Research

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore risk and protective factors associated with suicidal ideation among law enforcement personnel. Design/methodology/approach The methodology employed is based on the “Best Evidence Synthesis” approach, whereby researchers systematically examine and integrate the most empirically sound available research on the topic under investigation. Findings Results of studies showed that the interaction of multiple risk factors had a cumulative effect in increasing the risk for suicidal ideation. In total, five prominent aspects of policing were associated with risk for suicidal ideation: organizational stress; critical incident trauma; shift work; relationship problems; and alcohol use and abuse. Studies also indicated that protective factors and preventative measures had stress‐buffering effects which decreased the impact of police stressors. Research limitations/implications The model is limited because few studies have employed methodologically‐sound research designs to test risk and protective factors related to police suicide. This conceptual overview may facilitate theory development and provide directions for future research. Practical implications Law enforcement agencies which implement programs that assist police personnel in developing active coping styles, identify and access available social support systems, as well as utilize community‐based services may decrease risk for suicidal ideation. This review provides practical applications for law enforcement training, education, and program development. Originality/value The paper represents the most recent review of risk and protective factors related to suicidal ideation among police personnel. This integration of research provides police practitioners with an evidence‐based ecological framework that can be applied universally in police management settings.

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References

2013Stress: Appraisal and Coping 2004TARGET ARTICLE: "Posttraumatic Growth: Conceptual Foundations and Empirical Evidence"1922Mourning and Melancholia 2005Making human beings human : bioecological perspectives on human development 2008Suicide and Suicidal Behavior 1983Multiple Identities and Psychological Well-Being: A Reformulation and Test of the Social Isolation Hypothesis 1997Fatigue, alcohol and performance impairment 2005Trends in Suicide Ideation, Plans, Gestures, and Attempts in the United States, 1990-1992 to 2001-2003

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2018Law enforcement suicide: a review 2014General strain theory, exposure to violence, and suicide ideation among police officers: A gendered approach 2021Mental health screening amongst police officers: factors associated with under-reporting of symptoms 2017Stress at Work, Gendered Dys‐appearance and the Broken Body in Policing 2016Relationships between firearm availability and suicide: The role of psychology.

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