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https://n2v.almanacnews.com/square/print/2014/12/09/the-cop-mind-by-david-brooks

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The Cop Mind by David Brooks

Original post made by Peter Carpenter, Atherton: Lindenwood, on Dec 9, 2014

If you want an intelligent insight into the challenges and complexities of being a police officer in today's society then read this excellent piece by David Brooks:

Web Link

"But at the core of profession lies the central problem of political philosophy. How does the state preserve order through coercion? When should you use overwhelming force to master lawbreaking? When is it wiser to step back and use patience and understanding to defuse a situation? How do you make this decision instantaneously, when testosterone is flowing, when fear is in the air, when someone is disrespecting you and you feel indignation rising in the gut?

Racist police brutality has to be punished. But respect has to be paid. Police serve by walking that hazardous line where civilization meets disorder."

Comments

Posted by some loose
a resident of Menlo Park: Downtown
on Dec 9, 2014 at 1:27 pm

5 cops choking a dude selling loosies falls where? Instantaneous test'one filled battleground, apparently.

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Posted by Peter Carpenter
a resident of Atherton: Lindenwood
on Dec 9, 2014 at 1:30 pm
Peter Carpenter is a registered user.

some loose - you might try reading Brook's entire article [part deleted.]

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Posted by Joe
a resident of Menlo Park: Allied Arts/Stanford Park
on Dec 9, 2014 at 1:56 pm

Given the rare stresses David Brooks describes, are there daily or weekly occasions for police, as a group and individually, to look at the stresses they are under, to acknowledge them, to hear from leaders who empathize but will not tolerate bad or impulsive behavior?

In other words, are they psychologically healthy and if not, are there regular, routine accepted ways to get there? Or is it "Buck up and take it, buddy, or you don't belong in this outfit?" A culture built around the masculine prerogative.

Men also have a feminine side, for lack of a better term for an aversion to violence. Are policemen willing to recognize and/or develop these feelings in themselves and pay attention to them when they're on the job and in a crisis? Do they get specific training in doing specifically that? Would a sergeant, in closing a daily briefing, remind them to respect their inner feelings and be mindful?

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Posted by Menlo Voter
a resident of Menlo Park: other
on Dec 9, 2014 at 2:20 pm
Menlo Voter is a registered user.

Joe:

Most if not all departments offer Psychological counseling. It is up to the individual officers to use it.

As to your other questions, I can't say. I've been out of law enforcement for too long, but my gut tells me the answers are No.

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