ABSTRACT
Cops quit. That is the reality of the job. Understanding why people are so drawn to the profession, yet suddenly leave it, remains a mystery. This chapter1 examines why individuals enter the profession, endure the difficult assimilation processes, suffer the hazing, seek the social clustering, and yet become so alienated, leading to early separation. The definition of separation includes voluntary, recommended, and forced departures from employment. No matter how attached to the job, not everyone is cut out to serve the public.
