Predictors of traumatic stress symptoms in police personnel exposed to sexual trauma
Predictors of traumatic stress symptoms in police personnel exposed to sexual trauma
The Police Journal, Ahead of Print.
This article presents findings from a survey which explored exposure to sexual offence material in Police personnel (N = 384). Factor analysis determined that two types of coping strategies were employed: ‘detachment’ and ‘avoidance’, with a further factor regarding ‘negative coping beliefs’. Two types of adverse impact analogous to post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were identified: ‘cognitive/affective changes’ and ‘increased suspicion/vigilance’. Multiple regression analysis found that avoidance-based coping strategies, holding negative beliefs about coping, being a parent, and having personally experienced sexual abuse were all predictive of increased levels of traumatic stress symptoms.
This article presents findings from a survey which explored exposure to sexual offence material in Police personnel (N = 384). Factor analysis determined that two types of coping strategies were employed: ‘detachment’ and ‘avoidance’, with a further factor regarding ‘negative coping beliefs’. Two types of adverse impact analogous to post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were identified: ‘cognitive/affective changes’ and ‘increased suspicion/vigilance’. Multiple regression analysis found that avoidance-based coping strategies, holding negative beliefs about coping, being a parent, and having personally experienced sexual abuse were all predictive of increased levels of traumatic stress symptoms.