Research Proposal, Part I

Author

Institution

Introduction

Introduction: Explain the Police Stress and why it is significant.

Stress is one of the most prevalent issues affecting the society these days. Of course, there exists some variations as pertaining to the levels and even the causes of stress in different people. Quite a lot of research has been dedicated to studying the effects of stress on the general populace. However, there has been increased interest in stress among the police force, especially considering that they are charged with the responsibility of safeguarding security in the state. The work of policemen naturally calls for a considerable amount of restraint (Buker & Wiecko, 2007). This is not only continual restraint but also draining and stressful. Research shows that police stress has resulted in increased suicide rates. It goes without saying that this jeopardizes the security system or apparatus of the entire nation. Needless to say, the key victim in this case is the familial unit. Research shows that there has been an increase in divorce among the police force. It is not surprising to find policemen who have had 6-8 marriages (Paul, 1998).

a. Describe the general area being studied.

Police stress is a phrase that is used to describe the negative pressures relating to the police work. Stressors in the police force are categorized in four groups. There is stress that is inherent in their work and stress that arises internally from the policies and practices of the police department (Buker & Wiecko, 2007). There are also stressors that arise from the society at large, and the criminal justice system, as well as internal stressors that confront every officer at the personal level. However, research shows that the family unit bears the brunt of police stress (Paul, 1998). In essence, this study will concentrate on the causes of stress, as well as the effects that it has on family life. In addition, it will look into the causes of actions that may be taken to improve the situation.

b. Explain why this area is important to the general area under study.

The family unit represents the most fundamental unit in any country. In essence, its disruption would affect the overall health of the entire state. Studies show that police stress may be one of the key causes of high rates of divorce among the police force. It is worth noting that the family unit is not only a victim but may also be a cause of stress among the police. In essence, research on this aspect has to revolve around married police officers.

c. State your research problem first.

This study aims at examining the effects of police stress on the families of police officers and, by extension, their professional life. In addition, it aims at identify the stressors and come up with the appropriate measures of handling stress before it becomes unmanageable and result in negative effects on the family or even the officer (Buker & Wiecko, 2007).

d. Explain the background to the research problem.

The national rate of divorce currently stands at 50%. While this may be considered an extremely high figure, it is still a far cry from the 60%-75% divorce rates that police officers show (Buker & Wiecko, 2007). Police work is categorized as one of the most stressful professions in America. The alarming statistics underline the fact that there exists a considerably serious issue among officers, which necessitate an immediate action so as to preserve the morale and the high standards of the entire police department.

e. State your research questions.

While this research will seek to explore the general field of stress among police officers, it will also seek to have an enhanced knowledge about the factors that have a bearing on the occurrence of police stress (Paul, 1998). This study will explore various personal issues including the following.

What is your education level?

What is your marital status? If divorced, would you attribute the cause of divorce to your work in the police force? What are the causes of stress in your work as a police officer?

How long have you been married? Is this your first marriage?

What are your suggestions on the actions that may be taken to alleviate stress levels in the force?

f. Justify the proposed study.

Security is extremely crucial for the growth and development of any country. It is imperative that police officers responsible for safeguarding the security of any state are fit emotionally, psychologically and physically (Buker & Wiecko, 2007). Sustenance of the family unit of police officers is, therefore, extremely crucial as it is a determinant of their emotional health. This underlines the importance of determining the stressors that police officers face, how they affect the families, and possible solutions.

g. List the issues that emerge from the problem.

The connection between marital problems and stress among police families.

The connection between work conditions and stress.

The role played by internal and external factors in propagating stress.

References

Paul, G (1998). Law Enforcement Blues: Cops and Divorce. Wisconsin: Carroll College Library Waukesha

Buker, H & Wiecko, F (2007), Are causes of police stress global? Policing: an International Journal of Police Strategies & Management

(Buker & Wiecko, 2007) (Paul, 1998)