Developing Policy to Combat Police Suicide (In: Suicide and Law Enforcement, edited by D C Sheehan & J I Warren)

This chapter presents police suicide not as an event, but as a socialization process of learned behaviour within the culture & environment of modern policing. The author describes the learning & reinforced learning involved in each phase of the police career. By presenting depression, stress, & inadequate coping skills as learned behaviour, positive coping mechanisms emerge that can be incorporated into police policies & procedures. Suggestions emphasize education, training, & the need to develop interests & activities outside the police culture. Policy also addresses the need for peer support groups, spouse academies, ride-along programs, & mandated usage of employee assistance programs. JA