Date
12-13-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Human Services: Emphasis in Forensic Behavioral Health
Department
Human Services
First Advisor
Ryan Chukuske
Second Advisor
Jerrod Brown
Abstract
Law enforcement officers are exposed to occupational stress and trauma routinely and at rates that far exceed the general population. This chronic exposure places them at risk for physical and psychological injury and negative outcomes to include mental health disorders including burnout, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Prolonged exposure to occupational stress and trauma also increases the risk of suicidal ideation and dying by suicide, the most tragic outcome of the stress law enforcement officers face. This literature review focuses on individual risk factors, occupational stress, and trauma, and the development of mental health disorders in law enforcement officers. It also focuses on individual protective factors, prevention, intervention, and workplace support that can reduce negative outcomes for officers. Minnesota State Legislature mandated wellness training as a learning objective under Minnesota State Statute 626.8478. This literature review confirms the necessity of this required training but also identifies the need for actual wellness program initiatives within police departments to reduce the negative impacts of long-term occupational stress and trauma exposure.
Keywords: Law Enforcement, Police, Trauma, Occupational Stress, Resilience, Prevention, Interventions, Wellness Programs
Recommended Citation
Rolshouse, J. (2025). Behind the Badge: Effects of Stress and Trauma in Policing -- Understanding the Importance of Evidence-Based Prevention, Early Intervention, and Wellness Programs (Thesis, Concordia University, St. Paul). Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.csp.edu/human-services_masters/35Included in
Community Health Commons, Health Policy Commons, Leadership Studies Commons, Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene Commons, Organization Development Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Public Administration Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons, Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons
Comments
Author's Note
This capstone project is a comprehensive literature review that examines the psychological and physiological impacts of chronic occupational stress and trauma among law enforcement officers. The review synthesizes current peer-reviewed research to identify documented risk and protective factors, and evidence-based prevention and early-intervention strategies aimed at reducing negative outcomes for officers.
This project does not include original empirical data; rather, it integrates existing scholarly literature to support an understanding of cumulative trauma in policing and the organizational practices shown to mitigate adverse outcomes.
The findings are intended for educational and professional use by professionals in law enforcement, public safety leadership, training and education, mental health services, and public administration who have an interest in occupational stress, trauma-informed practice, and organizational wellness. While grounded in research, any application of the information should be adapted to local policies, legal requirements, and organizational contexts. This work is not a substitute for clinical assessment, diagnosis, or mental health treatment.
Use and Citation
Readers are encouraged to cite this work when referencing its synthesis or frameworks and to consult the original sources cited.