The Ex-Cop Syndrome

Paper Summary:

This paper takes a look at the emotional, psychological and physical problems many police officers experience after leaving the police force. These problems, often referred to as the "ex-cop syndrome", can be many and varied including alcoholism, higher incidences of heart attack, higher divorce rates, depression and addiction to prescription drugs. The paper also examines the police force culture that contributes to the behavior exhibited by ex-officers suffering from ex-cop syndrome.
Outline
Introduction
Factors in the Development of Police Officer Identity
Some Reasons Why Police Officers are Different to Civilians
Marriage and Family Problems Specific to Police Officers
The Effects of Stress
Police Suicide
The Effects of Shift Work
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The average police officer, if he or she makes it to retirement, lives about 5 years if they don't have an action plan. For those officers who are forced to retire early, or are dishonorably discharged, adjusting to the civilian world can be nothing short of a nightmare. Those who have felt compelled to retire early may feel a sense of rejection from their colleagues-a loss of identity. They may harbor frustration at not getting promotions they felt they should have got. Very often the debriefing (such as it is), is a mere formality and does not adequately address mental health concerns that should be addressed. This can leave the ex-police officer feeling lost, confused and cast adrift from what has been a significant part of their adult life. Anger, violence, substance abuse, criminal behavior and/or suicide can flow from this unbalanced mental state."

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