fpsyg-14-1145944.pdf (358.49 kB)
“I don’t want to be a victim again”: the impact of repeat assault on police officers
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-10, 07:11 authored by Louise DavidsonLouise Davidson, Amelia Dennis, Andriana Theodoropoulou, Holly Carter, Richard Amlôt, Ian HeskethIntroduction: The frequency of assaults on police officers in the United Kingdom is rising and evidence suggests that exposure to work-place violence can negatively impact wellbeing, for example, increased perceived stress, feeling worn out and tired, and emotional exhaustion. Despite the prevalence of assaults on police officers, little research has examined the impact of repeat assaults on officers’ wellbeing. Method: For the current study, 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted to investigate the impact of repeat assaults on wellbeing and occupational outcomes in police officers and staff, including impacts on their mental and physical heath, impacts on their work, the impact of prior assaults on future assaults, and what support they were provided with. Results: Findings indicate that repeat assaults had a negative impact on participants mental and physical wellbeing. Furthermore, a lack of support both from management and peers within the police force was found to further exacerbate the impact of repeat assaults. However, the provision of support was also identified as a mitigating factor when it was available and provided to participants which helped to protect participants from some of the negative impact of repeat assaults. Discussion: Findings provide a unique in-depth perspective into police officers’ experiences following repeat assaults, which can in turn inform national policies and help tailor effective support services within the police force.
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Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Frontiers in PsychologyISSN
1664-1078Publisher
Frontiers Media SAExternal DOI
Volume
14Page range
a1145944 1-11Department affiliated with
- Psychology Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2023-05-26First Open Access (FOA) Date
2023-05-26First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2023-05-26Usage metrics
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