Abstract
Purpose: We investigated the cross-sectional associations between police stress and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and the role of coping. Methods: A total score from PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C), a 17- item self-report questionnaire, was used for PTSD assessment in 342 officers. Job stress was assessed using the 60-item Spielberger Police Stress Survey. Mean stress indices were computed by averaging the products of the stress rating (0-100) and frequency (events occurring in the previous year to the date of examination) for total and stress subscales including administrative pressure, physical/psychological threats, and lack of support. Active and passive coping scores were derived from the Brief COPE. Simple and multiple linear regression models were used in the analyses. Results: PTSD symptoms were positively associated with total stress (B=0.016, p<0.001) and each stress subscale (administrative pressure: B=0.012, p<0.001; physical/psychological threats: B=0.013, p<0.001; lack of support: B=0.016, p<0.001) after adjustment for age, gender, race/ethnicity, smoking, and alcohol. These associations were stronger in officers with a lower active coping score compared with those who had a higher active coping score, and in officers having a higher passive coping score compared with those who had a lower passive coping score. Conclusion: Work-related stress was independently associated with PTSD, particularly in officers who had a low active and high passive coping score.
