ABSTRACT
From kittens in trees to domestic terrorism – law enforcement is expected to respond rapidly, effectively, and ethically. In addition to a high emotional workload and frequent trauma exposure, they carry a significant burden: Authority to act extends from verbal judo up to the use of lethal force. Over the past decade, law enforcement has faced unprecedented challenges, including a global pandemic and widespread social discord and unrest. Once one of the most trusted and respected professions, law enforcement members now routinely face public criticism – from worldwide coordinated protests and demonstrations to criminal prosecution. In addition to the inherent stressors “on the job,” this new public relations challenge is thought to have contributed to an unprecedented exodus out of the profession in recent years. In this chapter, a vignette is used to depict the impact on wellbeing of job-related stressors and trauma before considering the role of posttraumatic growth (PTG). The chapter concludes with a discussion of how embracing a salutogenic approach may foster a more resilient and adaptive force, as well as equip individual members to be better prepared and “primed” for growth through adversity. It is suggested that proactive and specialized operational and mental health training and interventions may provide the critical context necessary for members to respond to, establish coherence, and make meaning out of potentially traumatic experiences.
