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Kaufman CC, McHugh RK, Drury M, Merrill JG, Rosmarin DH. Spirituality/Religion Among First Responders With and Without Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Misuse. J Dual Diagn 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38560884 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2024.2330619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To examine the co-occurrence of alcohol misuse and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and potential sources of coping (e.g., spirituality/religion) and clinically relevant variables among first responders (e.g., firefighters, law enforcement corrections officers, paramedics). Method: We assessed rates of independent and co-occurring alcohol misuse and PTSD among a national online sample of 320 first responders as well as the prevalence and salience of S/R, guilt, shame, moral injury, aspects of S/R, and treatment interest. Results: In our sample, 46.88% (n = 150) met criteria for comorbid alcohol misuse and probable PTSD and individuals with these comorbid conditions reported significantly greater negative religious coping, moral injury, and shame than all other diagnostic groups (i.e., independent alcohol misuse, independent PTSD, and neither). Correlations also revealed significant relationships between alcohol misuse and PTSD symptomatology with positive and negative religious coping, moral injury, shame, guilt, interest in treatment, and interest in spiritually integrated treatment. Conclusions: Findings highlight the high rates of independent and co-occurring alcohol misuse and PTSD among first responders as well as the salience of S/R in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline C Kaufman
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - R Kathryn McHugh
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- McLean Hospital Stress, Anxiety, and Substance Use Laboratory, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mia Drury
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julia G Merrill
- Department of Geriatrics, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David H Rosmarin
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
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2
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Kaufman CC, Rosmarin DH. Spiritually Integrated Group Psychotherapy for First Responders: Forgiveness, Trauma, and Alcohol Use. Int J Group Psychother 2024; 74:217-243. [PMID: 38502106 PMCID: PMC11062829 DOI: 10.1080/00207284.2024.2322500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
First responders (e.g. firefighters, law enforcement, paramedics, corrections officers) experience high rates of comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Despite the relevance of both spirituality and forgiveness to PTSD and AUD among first responders, spiritually integrated group interventions for this population are rare. This article discusses a forgiveness session of a spiritually integrated group psychotherapy protocol for first responders (SPIRIT-FR) in acute psychiatric care. This brief group psychotherapy intervention includes (a) psychoeducation about the intersection of PTSD, AUD, and forgiveness (b) discussion of the relevance of forgiveness to PTSD and AUD, and (c) the integration of spiritual beliefs and behaviors to move toward forgiveness. We discuss relevant clinical theory as well as the potential clinical application of this protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline. C. Kaufman
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
| | - David H. Rosmarin
- Spirituality and Mental Health Program, McLean Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
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3
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Van Eerd D, Le Pouésard M, Yanar B, Irvin E, Gignac MAM, Jetha A, Morose T, Tompa E. Return-to-Work Experiences in Ontario Policing: Injured But Not Broken. J Occup Rehabil 2024; 34:265-277. [PMID: 37735312 PMCID: PMC10899295 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-023-10135-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Police officers and others working in police services are exposed to challenging and traumatic situations that can result in physical and/or psychological injuries requiring time off work. Safely returning to work post-injury is critical, yet little is known about current return-to-work (RTW) practices in police services. This study examines RTW practices and experiences in police services from the perspective of RTW personnel and workers with physical and/or psychological health conditions. METHODS We used a purposive sampling approach to recruit sworn and civilian members from several police services in Ontario, Canada. The recruited members had experienced RTW either as a person in a RTW support role or as a worker with a work-related injury/illness. We conducted and transcribed interviews for analysis and used qualitative research methods to identify themes in the data. RESULTS Five overarching themes emerged. Two pointed to the context and culture of police services and included matters related to RTW processes, injury/illness complexity, the hierarchical nature of police organizations, and a culture of stoicism and stigma. The remaining three themes pointed to the RTW processes of accommodation, communication and trust-building. They included issues related to recovery from injury/illness, meaningful accommodation, timely and clear communication, malingering and trust. CONCLUSIONS Our findings point to potential areas for improving RTW practices in police services: greater flexibility, more clarity, stricter confidentiality and reduced stigma. More research is needed on RTW practices for managing psychological injuries to help inform policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Van Eerd
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5S 1S9, Canada.
| | - M Le Pouésard
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5S 1S9, Canada
| | - B Yanar
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5S 1S9, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - E Irvin
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5S 1S9, Canada
| | - M A M Gignac
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5S 1S9, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - A Jetha
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5S 1S9, Canada
| | - T Morose
- Public Services Health and Safety Association, 4950 Yonge St, North York, ON, M2N 6K1, Canada
| | - E Tompa
- Institute for Work & Health, 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5S 1S9, Canada
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Hansson J, Padyab M. How the availability and adequacy of social support affect the general mental health of Swedish police officers. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1196320. [PMID: 37908822 PMCID: PMC10613646 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1196320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Police work is stressful. A protective function against work stress and harm to mental health is social support, either within or outside work. This cross-sectional study analyzes the associations of quantitative (availability) and qualitative (adequacy) aspects of social support with general mental health among Swedish police officers. A total of 728 officers responded to a national survey. Bivariate analyses (t-test and chi square) identified continuous and categorical variables (respectively) statistically significantly associated with sex and social support. Pearson correlation coefficient was provided to indicate the associations between general mental health and different types of social support. Sex-stratified logistic regression modeling calculated crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and assessed the relationships between different types of social support, sociodemographic variables and general mental health. The findings show that low adequacy of attachment is associated with poorer mental health among female officers, although female officers also reported higher availability of both social interaction and attachment compared to male officers. We found an association between low work-related social support and poorer mental health among single male police officers. Moreover, police officers who worked shifts, were younger, had less work experience, and/or had no children reported higher availability of attachment, whereas older police officers reported higher adequacy of social interaction compared to younger police officers. Variation in the quantity and quality of close social relationships seems to be important to mental health. Police organizations need to be aware of this in their efforts to make the work environment more supportive. Social support might create an environment where officers feel more comfortable discussing their mental health concerns and seeking assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Hansson
- Police Education Unit, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mojgan Padyab
- Police Education Unit, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Social Work, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Center for Demographic and Aging Research (CEDAR), Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Korem N, Ben-Zion Z, Spiller TR, Duek OA, Harpaz-Rotem I, Pietrzak RH. Correlates of avoidance coping in trauma-exposed U.S. military veterans: Results from the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. J Affect Disord 2023; 339:89-97. [PMID: 37437721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Avoidant coping strategies, which involve cognitions and behaviors aimed to avoid dealing with stressful experiences, are associated with adverse long-term mental and physical health outcomes. In response to traumatic events, these strategies can be maladaptive as they may interfere with the adaptive integration of traumatic events into consolidated memories. Using data from a nationally representative sample of more than 3000 trauma-exposed U.S. military veterans (mean time since trauma 30.9 years, SD = 19.9), we employed a network analytic approach to examine pairwise associations between key sociodemographic, personality, and psychosocial risk factors in relation to the endorsement of avoidant coping strategies. Results revealed that negative affect symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and adverse childhood experiences were positively associated with engagement in avoidance coping, and that greater emotional stability and conscientiousness were negatively associated with this measure. Secondary network analysis of individual negative affect symptoms of PTSD suggested that blaming oneself and/or others for the traumatic event, emotional neglect, and sexual abuse were most strongly linked to avoidance coping. Collectively, these results suggest that strong feelings of blame related to trauma, emotional neglect, and sexual abuse are associated with greater likelihood of engaging in avoidance coping, while emotional stability and conscientiousness are associated with a lower likelihood of engaging in such strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nachshon Korem
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Ziv Ben-Zion
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tobias R Spiller
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), Zurich, Switzerland; Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich (PUK), Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Or A Duek
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Community Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ilan Harpaz-Rotem
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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6
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Deng Y, Huang P, Yang Q, Ye B. Perceived Stress, Psychological Flexibility Profiles, and Mental Health During COVID-19: A Latent Profile Analysis. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:1861-1871. [PMID: 37228590 PMCID: PMC10204761 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s409395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Although the link between psychological flexibility and healthy functioning has been widely analyzed, the employed measurements often lacked accuracy. The current study introduced a person-centered approach that identified subgroups of college students across the dimensions of the Personalized Psychological Flexibility Index (PPFI) and explored how these subgroups relate to a risk factor (perceived stress) and mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, negative affect, and positive affect) in the context of COVID-19. Methods A sample of 659 participants (Mage = 19. 99, SD = 1.27; 57.97% females) completed the questionnaires online. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to determine the optimal number of subgroups or profiles. Then, multinomial logistic regression and analyses of variance were used to identify variables associated with profile membership. Results LPA identified three distinct profiles (active strategy, inconsistent strategy, and passive strategy). Furthermore, multinomial logistic regressions indicated that students with high perceived stress were more likely to be in the passive strategy group than the active strategy group (β = -0.104, OR = 0.901, p < 0.001) and the inconsistent strategy group (β = -0.087, OR = 0.917, p < 0.001). Additionally, analyses of variance revealed that the three profiles differed in depression (η2 = 0.062, p < 0.001), anxiety (η2 = 0.059, p < 0.001), negative affect (η2 = 0.047, p < 0.001), and positive affect (η2 = 0.048, p < 0.001). Conclusion The current study employed LPA based on the PPFI to identify and confirm three profiles of psychological flexibility. We found that perceived stress and mental health outcomes were associated with these three profiles. This study offers a new perspective on understanding psychological flexibility through a person-centered approach. Furthermore, interventions aimed at reducing college students' perceived stress during the COVID-19 crisis are critical for preventing the deterioration of psychological flexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Deng
- School of Psychology, School of Education, Center of Mental Health Education and Research, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pengfei Huang
- School of Psychology, School of Education, Center of Mental Health Education and Research, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiang Yang
- School of Education, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Baojuan Ye
- School of Psychology, School of Education, Center of Mental Health Education and Research, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China
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Abstract
Gig work is a type of contingent work which has increased markedly in recent times, and is characterised by uncertainty, unpredictability, and instability of both schedules and income earned. Gig workers are also likely to work for multiple platforms and/or employers. These work characteristics mean that performing gig work is associated with higher rates of stress than the general population (Madden et al. Pers Rev 2017). However, it is not currently known which strategies gig workers use to cope with this stress - including which strategies are likely to be effective. The aim of this study was to understand the relationship between coping strategies, number of employers and stress in gig workers. An online survey was completed by 49 gig workers. Validated questionnaires were administered to measure coping strategies (Brief COPE) and stress (Perceived Stress Scale-14). Approach coping strategies (active, planning, and social support) were associated with reduced stress (p<0.05), whereas the avoidant coping strategy of self-blame was associated with increased stress (p<0.05). No differences in stress were seen between gig workers with one employer and those with multiple employers. Findings suggest that some coping strategies may lower stress in gig workers, though long-term outcomes should be considered in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Hafeez
- Appleton Institute, Central Queensland University, Australia
| | - Charlotte Gupta
- Appleton Institute, Central Queensland University, Australia
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8
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Bevan MP, Priest SJ, Plume RC, Wilson EE. Emergency First Responders and Professional Wellbeing: A Qualitative Systematic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:14649. [PMID: 36429361 PMCID: PMC9691130 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Emergency first responders (EFRs) such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics and logistics personnel often suffer high turnover due to work-related stress, high workloads, fatigue, and declining professional wellbeing. As attempts to counter this through resilience programmes tend to have limited success, there is a need for further research into how organisational policies could change to improve EFRs' professional wellbeing. AIM To identify the factors that may contribute to or affect EFRs' professional wellbeing. METHODS A systematic literature review has been carried out. Three databases (Science Direct, ProQuest, and PubMed) were searched using keywords developed based on the PICo (population, interest, and context) framework. A total of 984 articles were extracted. These were then critically appraised for the quality of the evidence presented, leading to a total of five being ultimately included for review. RESULTS Thematic analysis revealed that although EFRs may be exposed daily to traumatic events, factors that contribute to a decline in professional wellbeing emerge from within the organisational environment, rather than from the event itself. CONCLUSION The study concludes that organisational and team relations factors significantly impact EFRs ability to cope with stress. As such, organisational policy should evolve to emphasise team relations over resilience programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm P. Bevan
- Flood Hazard Research Centre, Middlesex University, London NW4 4BT, UK
| | - Sally J. Priest
- Flood Hazard Research Centre, Middlesex University, London NW4 4BT, UK
| | - Ruth C. Plume
- Department of Natural Sciences, Middlesex University, London NW4 4BT, UK
| | - Emma E. Wilson
- Nottingham Centre for Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Nottingham Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
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Díaz-tamayo AM, Escobar-morantes JR, García-perdomo HA. Coping Strategies for Exposure to Trauma Situations in First Responders: A Systematic Review. Prehosp Disaster Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x22001479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective:
The objective of the present work was to characterize the coping strategies used by first responders to emergencies in the face of exposure to traumatic events.
Methods:
A systematic search was performed in the databases MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE, LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences), and the Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Clinical Trials (CENTRAL) from their inception through February 2022. First responders to emergencies with training in the prehospital area and who used validated measurement instruments for coping strategies were included.
Results:
First responders to emergencies frequently used nonadaptive coping strategies, with avoidance or disconnection being one of the main strategies, as a tool to avoid confronting difficult situations and to downplay the perceived stressful event. The nonadaptive coping strategies used by these personnel showed a strong relationship with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, burnout syndrome, psychiatric morbidity, and chronic stress. As part of the adaptive strategies, active coping was found, which includes acceptance, positive reinterpretation, focusing on the problem, self-efficacy, and emotional support, either social or instrumental, as protective strategies for these personnel.
Conclusions:
Developing adaptive coping strategies, whether focused on problems or seeking emotional support, can benefit emergency personnel in coping with stressful situations. These coping strategies should be strengthened to help prevent people from experiencing long-term negative effects that could arise from the traumatic events to which they are exposed. Active coping strategies instead of avoidance strategies should be promoted.
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10
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Agius J, Grech P. The perception and impact of emotional trauma upon active duty military personnel. European Journal of Trauma & Dissociation 2022; 6:100265. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejtd.2022.100265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Jacobs E, Keegan RJ. Sustaining optimal performance when the stakes could not be higher: Emotional awareness and resilience in emergency service personnel (with learnings for elite sport). Front Psychol 2022; 13:891585. [PMID: 36118503 PMCID: PMC9472212 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.891585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Emergency services personnel are a high stress occupation, being frequently confronted with highly consequential stressors and expected to perform: without fault; under high pressure; and in unpredictable circumstances. Research often invokes similarities between the experiences of emergency services personnel and elite athletes, opening up the possibility of transferring learnings between these contexts. Both roles involve genuine risks to emotional wellbeing because their occupations involve significant stress. Similarly, both roles face obstacles and injury, and their “success” is dependent on high-quality execution of their skills under pressure. As such, both occupations are required to have resilience and effective coping abilities to ensure psychological well-being. Researchers suggest emotional awareness may be a key variable in the management and maintenance of resilience. This study: (1) explored the experiences of emergency services personnel; (2) characterised connections between emotional awareness and resilience; and (3) reflected on the ways these findings can be extrapolated to elite athletes. We analysed 11 interviews with emergency services personnel. Participants identified resilience as crucial when coping with stress, however, many defined resilience as remaining unaffected by stress rather than, for example, managing and responding to it. Participants defined emotional awareness as understanding their emotions, and they recognised associated benefits for coping, resilience, and burnout. Nevertheless, most participants did not engage in practices to improve their emotional awareness. Barriers, such as maladaptive beliefs and help-seeking stigma, interfered with participants’ ability to cultivate emotional awareness, to promote resilience. In contrast, some participants described profound improvements in resilience and coping following the cultivation of emotional awareness. This finding illustrates that systemic change must target the individual, team, and organisation to correct misperceptions about resilience, emotional awareness, and psychological help-seeking. Developing emotional awareness may help emergency services personnel and other high stress occupations like elite athletes process difficult experiences and enhance their resilience, promoting well-being, and career longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Jacobs
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- *Correspondence: Emily Jacobs,
| | - Richard J. Keegan
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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12
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Cushing N, Meehan C, Norris K. Resilience in animal care professions: does the stress shield model fit? Aust Vet J 2022; 100:513-525. [PMID: 35698265 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Animal care professionals can experience adverse psychological outcomes due to their work, therefore research exploring supporting resilience in this population is needed. This study investigated the capacity of the Stress Shield Model (SSM) to explain relationships between individual, interpersonal, and organisational factors with outcomes in resilience (resilience, growth, and job satisfaction) in animal care professionals. Empowerment was hypothesised to mediate these relationships. Australian and New Zealand animal care professionals (N = 393) completed an online survey measuring conscientiousness, coping, team and leader relationships, job demands, organisational resources, empowerment, growth, resilience, and job satisfaction. Results indicated that SSM can partially explain relationships between individual, interpersonal, and organisational factors and outcomes in resilience, and empowerment partially mediated the effect of organisational resources on growth. Problem-approach coping positively predicted resilience and growth; conversely, emotion-avoidant coping negatively predicted these outcomes. Conscientiousness positively predicted resilience and negatively predicted job satisfaction. Team relationships positively predicted growth and resilience, while leader-member relationships positively predicted job satisfaction. Organisational resources positively predicted resilience, growth, and job satisfaction, conversely, job demands predicted reductions across these outcomes. Findings indicate supporting resilience in animal care professionals requires fostering individual, interpersonal, and organisational resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Cushing
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Tasmania, Australia
| | - C Meehan
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Tasmania, Australia
| | - K Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Tasmania, Australia
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13
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Annell S, Sverke M, Gustavsson P, Lindfors P. On the same path? Profiles of proximal socialization outcomes among new police officers. Nordic Psychology 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19012276.2021.2014350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Annell
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Sverke
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Petter Gustavsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Petra Lindfors
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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14
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Anderson GS, Ricciardelli R, Tam-Seto L, Giwa S, Carleton RN. Self-Reported Coping Strategies for Managing Work-Related Stress among Public Safety Personnel. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:2355. [PMID: 35206541 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Public safety personnel (PSP) experience a disproportionately high number of on-the-job stressors compared to the general population. PSP develop self-initiated actions, or coping strategies, that either confront the situation (approach strategies) or avoid the situation (avoidance strategies) to reduce the impact of stressors on their well-being. Understanding how PSP cope with stress is critical to ensuring their safety and that of the public. In the current study, we examined the coping strategies of PSP (n = 828 in the total sample). Participants managed their experiences of occupational stress or distress using three primary approach coping strategies: education (learning about mental illness and their causes), self-reliance (processes of self-reflection), and treatment (pharmaceutical, psychotherapy) that were considered adaptive. Results demonstrate PSP used multiple coping strategies simultaneously to deal with occupational stress. PSP who reported doing better tended to attribute their success to treatment, specifically psychotherapy, either alone or in combination with other interventions, and almost always emphasizing important supports from co-workers, families, and friends. Changing workplace culture could help to de-pathologize the effects of stress reactions being perceived as individual “failings”.
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15
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Baker LD, Stroman JC, Kalantar EA, Bock RC, Berghoff CR. Indirect Associations Between Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Other Psychiatric Symptoms, Alcohol Use, and Well-being via Psychological Flexibility Among Police Officers. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:55-65. [PMID: 33821526 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Police officers experience a high number of potentially traumatic events (PTEs) often associated with elevated posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). In addition, PTSS are related to co-occurring psychiatric symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression), alcohol misuse, and low perceived well-being. Yet, behavioral processes that may account for the associations between PTSS and unfavorable outcomes remain unspecified. Psychological flexibility, or one's response to private experiences (e.g., PTE-related memories) with an open, aware, and active approach, may be one such process. The present study aimed to evaluate psychological flexibility as both a mediator and moderator of PTSS and commonly co-occurring psychiatric symptoms, alcohol use, and general well-being, using cross-sectional data provided by a sample of police officers (N = 459) recruited from three regionally distributed U.S. police agencies. Structural equation modeling indicated a well-fitting model wherein psychological flexibility indirectly accounted for associations among PTSS and endogenous outcomes, χ2 (107, N = 457) = 225.33, p < .001, CFI = .99, TLI = .98, RMSEA = .05, 90% CI [.04, .06], SRMR = .03. Psychological flexibility also moderated associations between PTSS and psychiatric symptoms, B = 1.58 (SE = 0.22), p < .001; and well-being, B = -3.84 (SE = 0.46), p < .001. Although additional research is needed, these preliminary results suggest psychological flexibility may be a behavioral process that accounts for negative outcomes associated with PTSS and a productive intervention target in the context of PTSS and generalized distress. Further research regarding the role of psychological flexibility in PTSS-related outcomes for police officers appears warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas D Baker
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
| | - Joel C Stroman
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
| | - Emily A Kalantar
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
| | - Rachel C Bock
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
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Navarrete J, García-Salvador MÁ, Cebolla A, Baños R. Impact of Mindfulness Training on Spanish Police Officers' Mental and Emotional Health: a Non-Randomized Pilot Study. Mindfulness (N Y) 2022;:1-17. [PMID: 35043066 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-022-01827-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The purpose of this exploratory non-randomized controlled study was to determine the acceptance and effectiveness of an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) co-designed by a police officer. Methods A pretest-posttest control group design was followed. Participants (MBI group = 20; control group = 18) answered baseline and post-training self-reported measures. In addition, the weekly emotional state of the MBI group was collected. Paired-samples t-test and analysis of covariance were performed for pre-post within-group and between-group differences, respectively, as well as linear mixed effects analysis of repeated measures for week-by-week data. Results High acceptance and attendance rates, as well as significant pre-post within-group differences in the MBI group in mindfulness (η2 = 0.43), self-compassion (η2 = 0.43), depression (η2 = 0.54), anxiety (η2 = 0.46), stress (η2 = 0.51), difficulties in emotion regulation, sleep quality (η2 = 0.57), and burnout (η2 = 0.31–0.47), were identified. Moreover, police officers who underwent the MBI experienced a week by week decrease of anger, disgust, anxiety, sadness, and desire. Finally, after adjusting for pre-test scores, significant between-group differences were found in the way of attending to internal and external experiences (observing mindfulness facet; ηp2 = 0.21), depression symptoms (ηp2 = 0.23), general distress (ηp2 = 0.24), and the degree of physical and psychological exhaustion (personal burnout; ηp2 = 0.20). Conclusions The preliminary effectiveness of this MBI on psychopathology and quality of life outcomes in Spanish police officers was discussed. Previous evidence regarding the promising use of MBIs in this population was supported.
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Guerrero-Barona E, Guerrero-Molina M, Chambel MJ, Moreno-Manso JM, Bueso-Izquierdo N, Barbosa-Torres C. Suicidal Ideation and Mental Health: The Moderating Effect of Coping Strategies in the Police Force. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18158149. [PMID: 34360441 PMCID: PMC8345933 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The suicide rate in the police force (Fuerzas y Cuerpos de Seguridad-FFCCSS) is estimated to be greater than that of the general population. The objectives of this paper are to detect mental health problems, in particular depression and anxiety, and to analyze the moderating effect of coping strategies on the relation between mental health and suicide ideation in police officers. The Suicidal Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ-R), Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI), the Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the Brief Cope have all been used in the study. The sample consists of 98 Spanish police officers, of whom 91.8% were male. The results indicate that depression and anxiety can predict suicidal ideation. Nevertheless, it must be said that coping strategies do not have a moderating effect in the relation between mental health and suicidal ideation in this professional group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloísa Guerrero-Barona
- Department of Psychology, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain; (E.G.-B.); (J.M.M.-M.); (N.B.-I.); (C.B.-T.)
| | - Mónica Guerrero-Molina
- Department of Psychology, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain; (E.G.-B.); (J.M.M.-M.); (N.B.-I.); (C.B.-T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-924289300
| | - Maria José Chambel
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-013 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Juan Manuel Moreno-Manso
- Department of Psychology, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain; (E.G.-B.); (J.M.M.-M.); (N.B.-I.); (C.B.-T.)
| | - Natalia Bueso-Izquierdo
- Department of Psychology, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain; (E.G.-B.); (J.M.M.-M.); (N.B.-I.); (C.B.-T.)
| | - Carlos Barbosa-Torres
- Department of Psychology, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain; (E.G.-B.); (J.M.M.-M.); (N.B.-I.); (C.B.-T.)
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18
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Fonseca SM, Cunha S, Faria S, Campos R, Queirós C. Why are emergency medical technicians' coping strategies dysfunctional? Direct and indirect effects of resilience and perceived stress. Int Emerg Nurs 2021; 56:100995. [PMID: 33812197 DOI: 10.1016/j.ienj.2021.100995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are at high risk for traumatic disorders, and these disorders are more likely if they resort to dysfunctional coping. However, few studies have examined how dysfunctional coping can be decreased, specifically by comparing the impact of personal characteristics, such as resilience, and of occupational factors, such as stress. This study examines the contribution of resilience and perceived stress on EMTs' dysfunctional coping. METHODS A total of 502 EMTs (66% men), with a job experience of approximately 8 years (SD = 3.84), answered the Resilience Scale (Self and Life Acceptance; Personal Competence; Total score), Brief Cope, and Anxiety Depression Stress Scales. RESULTS EMTs reported high resilience, low stress and dysfunctional coping. Resilience dimensions, specifically self and life acceptance, and stress contributed to dysfunctional coping. Stress displayed the highest regression coefficient. The effect of self and life acceptance on dysfunctional coping was no longer significant when accounting for stress, revealing a full mediation effect. CONCLUSIONS How EMTs perceive stress can mitigate the protective role of acceptance on the use of dysfunctional coping. These findings suggest EMTs' occupational training may benefit from focusing on how to manage stressful and critical incidents, as well as on how to cope with stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia M Fonseca
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal; FPCEUP - Rua Alfredo Allen, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sónia Cunha
- National Institute of Medical Emergency, Portugal; Rua Dr. Alfredo Magalhães, 62 - 5° Andar, 4000-063 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sara Faria
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal; FPCEUP - Rua Alfredo Allen, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Rui Campos
- National Institute of Medical Emergency, Portugal; Rua Dr. Alfredo Magalhães, 62 - 5° Andar, 4000-063 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Cristina Queirós
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal; FPCEUP - Rua Alfredo Allen, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
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Boovaragasamy C, Kumar M, Sandirakumaran A, Gnanasabai G, Rahman M, Govindasamy A. COVID-19 and police personnel: An exploratory community based study from South India. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:816-819. [PMID: 34041082 PMCID: PMC8138347 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1249_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 has ensured that countries enforced complete lock down to prevent the spread of infection. Despite millions of people working from home during this pandemic situation, police personnel 'the front line workers' who deal with the general population to ensure their safety and wellbeing are at risk of stress and other mental health problems in addition to the risk of infection itself. Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the perception of police personnel towards the disease, factors influencing stress and coping abilities of them amid COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews among randomly selected police personnel working in COVID-19 situation across the district of Karaikal, Puducherry. Results: Of the 32 police personnel, majority were of age group 36-45 (43.75%), followed by 25-35 (37.5%). More than half of them were married (78.12%). Around 62.5% had been in the present occupation for more than 5 years. The in depth interviews were group under 5 themes namely perception, practice they follow amid COVID-19, stress they go through, challenges faced, coping strategies used by them. Conclusion: It is the need of the hour to care for the well-being of frontline workers, especially police personals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chithra Boovaragasamy
- Assistant Professor of Community Medicine, Vinayaka Mission's Medical College & Hospital, Karaikal, Puducherry, India
| | - Mohan Kumar
- Post Graduate Junior Resident, Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, India
| | - Adarsh Sandirakumaran
- Under Graduate, Vinayaka Mission's Medical College & Hospital, Vinayaka Mission Research Foundation (Deemed to be University), Karaikal, Puducherry, India
| | - Gnanamani Gnanasabai
- Associate Professor of Community Medicine, Vinayaka Mission's Medical College & Hospital, Karaikal, Puducherry, India
| | - Mujibur Rahman
- Professor & Head of Community Medicine, Vinayaka Mission's Medical College & Hospital, Karaikal, Puducherry, India
| | - Ambujam Govindasamy
- Dean, Vinayaka Mission's Medical College & Hospital, Karaikal, Puducherry, India
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Angehrn A, Vig KD, Mason JE, Stelnicki AM, Shields RE, Asmundson GJG, Carleton RN. Sex differences in mental disorder symptoms among Canadian police officers: the mediating role of social support, stress, and sleep quality. Cogn Behav Ther 2021; 51:3-20. [PMID: 33554743 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2021.1877338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Police officers, and specifically women officers, report elevated mental disorder rates relative to the general population, which may be impacted by sleep quality, policing-related stress, and social support. In a sample of Canadian police officers, sex was indirectly related to post traumatic stress, depression, generalized anxiety, panic, and social anxiety symptoms through its relationships with social support and sleep quality, but not through policing-related stress. Sex was indirectly related to problematic alcohol use symptoms through sleep quality only. Differences in clinical symptom severity between both sexes may be partially accounted for by the worsened sleep quality reported by women officers relative to their men counterparts. Conversely, general social support appears to be a protective, albeit insufficient, factor influencing the mental health of women police officers. Male and women police officers did not differ in their reports of policing-related stress. The current results underscore the importance of incorporating strategies to improve sleep practices into police workplace environments. Additionally, findings that general social support and policing-related stress do not help explain the trend of increased clinical severity reported by women police suggest that more research is still needed to identify and delineate other contributing factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréanne Angehrn
- Anxiety and Illness Behaviour Laboratory, University of Regina, Regina, Canada
| | - Kelsey D Vig
- Anxiety and Illness Behaviour Laboratory, University of Regina, Regina, Canada
| | - Julia E Mason
- Anxiety and Illness Behaviour Laboratory, University of Regina, Regina, Canada
| | - Andrea M Stelnicki
- Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment, Regina, Canada
| | - Robyn E Shields
- Anxiety and Illness Behaviour Laboratory, University of Regina, Regina, Canada
| | | | - R Nicholas Carleton
- Anxiety and Illness Behaviour Laboratory, University of Regina, Regina, Canada.,Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment, Regina, Canada
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21
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O’Toole K, Brown CA. Evaluating the quality of resilience apps for military members and public safety personnel. Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health 2021. [DOI: 10.3138/jmvfh-2020-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
LAY SUMMARY A growing number of smartphone apps are being recommended to help build resilience. It is important to test whether these apps are of good quality and evidence-based. This study systematically evaluated 12 popular resilience-related apps for military and public service personnel and found that the majority were of high quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin O’Toole
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Cary A. Brown
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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22
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Carmassi C, Porta I, Bertelloni CA, Impagnatiello P, Capone C, Doria A, Corsi M, Dell'Osso L. PTSD and post-traumatic stress spectrum in the Italian Navy Operational Divers Group and corps of Coast Guard Divers employed in search and rescue activities in the Mediterranean refugees emergences and Costa Concordia shipwreck. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 129:141-146. [PMID: 32912594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Rescue personnel is at high risk for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) because of the possible repetitive exposition to "cruel details of traumatic events" (DSM-5). Literature reported PTSD rates in combat exposed veterans, although the Italian Navy military personnel has been frequently involved in no-war activities in most recent years, such as Search and Rescue (SAR) activities of civilians involved in catastrophic events. The study aimed at exploring the prevalence of PTSD and its impact on social and work functioning among divers of the Italian Navy employed in the SAR activities for the Costa Concordia shipwreck (2012), the collapsed control tower of the Genoa harbour (2013), and the "Mare Nostrum" and "Triton" immigrant emergency Operations in the Mediterranean Sea. The 85 Italian Navy and Coast Guard Divers on duty for these activities were involved in the study and forty fulfilled the assessments, including the: Impact Event Scale (IES-r), Trauma and Loss Spectrum Self-Report (TALS-SR) and Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS). In the three years before enrollment 77.5% of the sample (n = 31) performed at least one rescue operation, with full and partial DSM-5 PTSD rates being 7.5% and 22.5%, respectively. A correlation emerged between WSAS domains or total scores and TALS-SR score domains for PTSD. Rescue Navy personnel resulted to be at risk for post-traumatic stress symptoms, and these subthreshold PTSD manifestations appear to impact on functioning. Further studies are needed to better investigate PTSD risk and resilience factors in this particular group of workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Carmassi
- Psychiatric Clinic, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56100, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Carlo Antonio Bertelloni
- Psychiatric Clinic, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56100, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | | | | | - Martina Corsi
- Psychiatric Clinic, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56100, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Psychiatric Clinic, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56100, Pisa, Italy.
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Queirós C, Passos F, Bártolo A, Faria S, Fonseca SM, Marques AJ, Silva CF, Pereira A. Job Stress, Burnout and Coping in Police Officers: Relationships and Psychometric Properties of the Organizational Police Stress Questionnaire. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E6718. [PMID: 32942672 PMCID: PMC7557776 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Policing is a stressful occupation, which impairs police officers' physical/mental health and elicits burnout, aggressive behaviors and suicide. Resilience and coping facilitate the management of job stress policing, which can be operational or organizational. All these constructs are associated, and they must be assessed by instruments sensitive to policing idiosyncrasies. This study aims to identify operational and organizational stress, burnout, resilient coping and coping strategies among police officers, as well to analyze the psychometric properties of a Portuguese version of the Organizational Police Stress Questionnaire. A cross-sectional study, with online questionnaires, collected data of 1131 police officers. With principal components and confirmatory factor analysis, PSQ-org revealed adequate psychometric properties, despite the exclusion of four items, and revealed a structure with two factors (poor management and lack of resources, and responsibilities and burden). Considering cut-off points, 88.4% police officers presented high operational stress, 87.2% high organizational stress, 10.9% critical values for burnout and 53.8% low resilient coping, preferring task-orientated than emotion and avoidance coping. Some differences were found according to gender, age and job experience. Job stress and burnout correlated negatively with resilient coping, enthusiasm towards job and task-orientated coping. Results reinforce the importance to invest on police officers' occupational health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Queirós
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando Passos
- Psychology Unit of the Portuguese National Police, 2605-000 Belas-Sintra, Portugal
| | - Ana Bártolo
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sara Faria
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | | | | | - Carlos F Silva
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Anabela Pereira
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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García-Rivera BR, Olguín-Tiznado JE, Aranibar MF, Ramírez-Barón MC, Camargo-Wilson C, López-Barreras JA, García-Alcaraz JL. Burnout Syndrome in Police Officers and Its Relationship with Physical and Leisure Activities. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E5586. [PMID: 32756344 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
No previous studies in Mexico have been found that jointly analyze physical and leisure activities as variables related to mental health in police officers. This paper presents research on burnout in Mexican Police officers. The question it answers is: is there any association of burnout with physical and leisure activities and personal profile? A total of 276 police officers (87% men and 13% women) participated. To obtain information, the Spanish Burnout Inventory and the Operational Police Stress questionnaires were used. A cross sectional study design was utilized with tests of validity and reliability, goodness of fit, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and analysis of k-means clusters. Results showed that a high number of policemen had high prevalence of burnout and a high level of mental exhaustion, and that exercise was positively and significantly related to lower burnout risk. Men showed higher risk than women. Results should be considered to improve interventions and occupational health practices in the police force. This paper improves understanding of burnout among policemen and the importance of exercise and leisure activities to alleviate burnout.
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Ryu GW, Yang YS, Choi M. Evaluating real-time momentary stress and affect in police officers using a smartphone application. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1154. [PMID: 32703175 PMCID: PMC7376902 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09225-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Police officers work under stressful conditions, and the resulting occupational stress may impact their health and well-being through changes in positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA). It is therefore important to assess officers’ stress, PA, and NA while it is experienced. This study evaluates police officers’ momentary stress and affect in real-world settings using an ecological momentary assessment, and examines the within-person (W) and between-person (B) factors that influence momentary affect. Methods Eighty-nine police officers were recruited in South Korea. Participants completed questionnaires about their momentary stress and affect using a smartphone application. The associations between momentary stress, momentary contextual environment, momentary PA, and momentary NA were examined using mixed modeling. Results Social overload (W: -.37), work discontent (W: −.45, B: −.73), social tension (W: −.79, B: −.67), and pressure to perform (W: −.29, B: −.49) were significantly associated with lower PA. Work overload (B: .33) and social isolation(W: .48, B: .31) were significantly associated with higher PA. Being with family (W: .71, B: .91) and friends (W: 1.89, B: 2.45) were significantly associated with higher PA. Being at home or other places away from the work place were significantly associated with higher PA (W: 1.01) and when patrolling or investigating were associated with lower PA (B: − 1.13). Lack of social recognition (W: 1.74, B: 2.33), work discontent (W: 1.59, B: 1.88), social tension (W: 1.74, B: 2.92), and pressure to perform (W: .78, B: 1.92) were significantly associated with higher NA. Being with colleagues (W: − 1.43), family (W: -1.38, B: − 2.66) and friends (W: -1.78, B: − 2.45) were associated with lower NA. Conclusions Momentary within-person and between-person stress factors and contextual factors influenced police officers’ momentary affect. These factors should be considered when developing interventions to mitigate stress and improve affect in police officers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gi Wook Ryu
- Yonsei University College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sook Yang
- Yonsei University College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Mona Choi
- Yonsei University College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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26
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Schäfer SK, Sopp MR, Staginnus M, Lass-Hennemann J, Michael T. Correlates of mental health in occupations at risk for traumatization: a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:335. [PMID: 32586338 PMCID: PMC7318450 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02704-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitals, police stations, and fire departments are highly demanding workplaces. Staff members are regularly exposed to various stressors including traumatic events. Correspondingly, several studies report high rates of mental health issues among these occupations. Nevertheless, despite these challenging circumstances, some staff members manage to sustain their mental health. The current study is the first to investigate three health-promoting factors simultaneously among three different, highly demanding occupations. METHODS The present cross-sectional survey investigated health-promoting factors (sense of coherence - SOC, trait-resilience, locus of control - LOC) and mental health outcomes (general psychopathological symptom burden, posttraumatic stress, burnout) in medical staff (n = 223), police officers (n = 257), and firefighters (n = 100). RESULTS Among all occupations, SOC, trait-resilience, and an internal LOC were negatively associated with general psychopathological symptoms, posttraumatic stress, and burnout symptoms. By contrast, all these outcome measures were positively correlated with an external LOC. Multiple regression models including all health-promoting factors explained 56% of the variance in general psychopathological symptoms and 27% in posttraumatic stress symptoms. Among all occupations, SOC was the strongest predictor of both general psychopathological symptom burden and posttraumatic stress symptoms. Multigroup path analyses revealed minor differences across occupations, mainly driven by a stronger influence of LOC in police officers. CONCLUSION Across all occupations, SOC was identified as the most important health-promoting factor. Future longitudinal studies should further examine the causal link between health-promoting factors and mental distress in different workplaces. Such studies will also allow for further development and evaluation of resilience promoting programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K. Schäfer
- Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Building A1 3, 66123 Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - M. Roxanne Sopp
- Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Building A1 3, 66123 Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - Marlene Staginnus
- Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Building A1 3, 66123 Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - Johanna Lass-Hennemann
- Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Building A1 3, 66123 Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - Tanja Michael
- Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Building A1 3, 66123 Saarbruecken, Germany
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Syed S, Ashwick R, Schlosser M, Jones R, Rowe S, Billings J. Global prevalence and risk factors for mental health problems in police personnel: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Occup Environ Med 2020; 77:737-747. [PMID: 32439827 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Police face an increased risk of developing mental health problems, yet reliable estimates of their psychological difficulties remain unknown. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimate the pooled prevalence and risk factors for mental health problems among police personnel worldwide. Three independent reviewers searched 16 databases and screened 11 506 articles published between January 1980 and October 2019. Eligible studies involved at least 100 active police professionals and used validated instruments to ascertain specific mental health problems. Estimates were pooled using random-effects meta-analyses. In total, 60 cross-sectional and seven longitudinal studies, involving 272 463 police personnel from 24 countries met criteria for inclusion. The overall pooled point prevalence was 14.6% for depression (95% CI 10.9% to 18.6%), 14.2% for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD; 95% CI 10.3% to 18.7%), 9.6% for a generalised anxiety disorder (95% CI 6.7% to 12.9%), 8.5% for suicidal ideation (95% CI 6.1% to 11.2%), 5.0% for alcohol dependence (95% CI 3.5% to 6.7%) and 25.7% for hazardous drinking (95% CI 19.6% to 32.4%). The strongest risk factor for depression and suicidal ideation was higher occupational stress, and the strongest risk factors for PTSD were higher occupational stress and avoidant coping strategies. Higher levels of peer-support were associated with significantly lower PTSD symptoms. Our findings suggest that the prevalence of mental health problems among police exceeds twice that previously reported in mixed samples of first responders, and is associated with poor social support, occupational stress and maladaptive coping strategies. Without effective intervention, psychological difficulties will remain a substantial health concern among police.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabeer Syed
- Oxford Institute of Clinical Psychology Training and Research, University of Oxford & Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK .,Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rachel Ashwick
- Oxford Institute of Clinical Psychology Training and Research, University of Oxford & Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Marco Schlosser
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Jones
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Rowe
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jo Billings
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
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Ryu GW, Yang YS, Choi M. Mediating role of coping style on the relationship between job stress and subjective well-being among Korean police officers. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:470. [PMID: 32272933 PMCID: PMC7144054 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08546-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Police officers have long been known to have one of the most stressful occupations. This study investigates their stress levels, coping styles, and subjective well-being, including affect and life satisfaction. We also explore the interrelationships of these factors to determine how coping style influences a police officer’s subjective well-being. Methods We used a convenience sampling method for 112 police officers in a metropolitan area in South Korea. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. The questionnaires consisted of the following scales: job stress, coping style, positive/negative affect, and life satisfaction that measured subjective well-being. Descriptive statistics, a correlation analysis and Hayes’ PROCESS macro, and bootstrap analysis were performed. Results The level of job stress for the participants was moderate, with an average of 43.57 out of 100. The mean scores of positive affect was 17.38 out of 40, 8.50 out of 40 for negative affect, and 20.76 out of 35 for life satisfaction. Job stress and coping were significantly correlated with subjective well-being, and problem-solving style mediated stress, positive affect, and life satisfaction. Lastly, assistance pursuit style mediated stress and positive affect. Conclusions Participants’ problem-solving and assistance pursuit coping styles were shown as important mediating factors for stress and subjective well-being, especially positive affect. These findings need to be considered when planning interventions and implementing strategies focusing on the psychosocial health of the improvement of police officers’ well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gi Wook Ryu
- Yonsei University College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sook Yang
- Yonsei University College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Mona Choi
- Yonsei University College of Nursing, Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
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Arble E, Daugherty AM, Arnetz B. Differential Effects of Physiological Arousal Following Acute Stress on Police Officer Performance in a Simulated Critical Incident. Front Psychol 2019; 10:759. [PMID: 31024398 PMCID: PMC6465322 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Police officer response in a critical incident is often a life-or-death scenario for the officer, the suspect, and the public. Efficient and accurate decisions are necessary to ensure the safety of all involved. Under these conditions, it is important to understand the effects of physiological arousal in response to acute stress on police officer performance in critical and dangerous incidents. Prior research suggests that physiological arousal following a stressor differentially affects police performance – communication may be impaired, whereas well-rehearsed, tactical behaviors may be resilient. Objectives: In this study, we examine the differential effects of physiological arousal across three police skill domains: verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and tactical skill. Methods: A sample of Swedish police cadets (N = 17) participated in a critical incident simulation, which was a reenactment of a real-life incident that had resulted in a police officer death; the simulation included multiple calls, dynamic environments, and surprise threats. An expert rater evaluated the cadets across multiple domains of skill, and physiological arousal was monitored by continuous heart rate monitoring and measures of circulating cortisol and antithrombin taken before and after the incident simulation. Results: The simulation increased police officer arousal, as reflected in elevated heart rate, but this alone did not predict differences in performance. Greater increase in antithrombin was associated with better general performance, but a specific deficit in verbal communication as compared to tactical performance and nonverbal communication. Change in cortisol was unrelated to the skill assessments. Conclusions: Police officer performance during a critical incident simulation is affected by physiological arousal. The findings are discussed with implications for police officer decision-making and real-world performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eamonn Arble
- Department of Psychology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI, United States
| | - Ana M Daugherty
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States.,Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Bengt Arnetz
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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Basinska BA, Dåderman AM. Work Values of Police Officers and Their Relationship With Job Burnout and Work Engagement. Front Psychol 2019; 10:442. [PMID: 30923507 PMCID: PMC6426752 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Values represent people's highest priorities and are cognitive representations of basic motivations. Work values determine what is important for employees in their work and what they want to achieve in their work. Past research shows that levels of both aspects of job-related well-being, job burnout and work engagement, are related to work values. The policing profession is associated with high engagement and a risk of burnout. There is a gap in the literature regarding the hierarchy of work values in police officers, how work values are associated with job burnout and work engagement in this group, and whether work values in police officers are sensitive to different levels of job burnout and work engagement. Therefore, the aim of our study was to examine the relationships between work values and job burnout and work engagement, in a group of experienced police officers. We investigated: (a) the hierarchy of work values based on Super's theory of career development, (b) relationships between work values and burnout and work engagement, and (c) differences between the work values in four groups (burned-out, strained, engaged, and relaxed). A group of 234 Polish police officers completed the Work Values Inventory (WVI) modeled upon Super's theory, the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. The results show that police officers gave the highest priority to extrinsic work values. Job burnout was negatively correlated with the cognitive intrinsic work values (Creativity, Challenge, and Variety), while work engagement was positively correlated with the largest group of intrinsic work values (Creativity, Challenge, Variety, Altruism, and Achievement), as well as with the extrinsic work values (Prestige and Co-workers). The police officers showed significant differences, between levels of job burnout and work engagement, for intrinsic work values such as Variety, Challenge, and Creativity (large effects), and for Altruism and Prestige (moderate effects). The findings are discussed within the context of the Conservation of Resources theory, which explains how people invest and protect their personal resources, and how this is connected with preferred work values. We conclude that intrinsic work values are sensitive to different levels of burnout and engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata A. Basinska
- Faculty of Management and Economics, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna M. Dåderman
- Department of Social and Behavioural Studies, Division of Psychology, Education and Sociology, University West, Trollhättan, Sweden
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