10/01/2021
By Karen Mullins
School of Criminology and Justice Studies is proud to announce a master's thesis defense by James Loynd, "Exploring the Correlates Between Gender and the Stigma Connected to Law Enforcement Personnel Seeking/Accepting Treatment for Mental Health Issues."
Friday, Oct. 15, 2021
10 to 11 a.m.
Via Zoom
Committee:
- Christopher Harris, Chair
- Melissa Morabito
- Jason Rydberg
Abstract
Police officers are exposed to stress, trauma and elevated risk for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The present study examined the role of gender in mental health stigma among officers. Current and retired police officers (N=257) were recruited through an anonymous online survey. Attitudes towards mental health stigma were examined through the collection of demographic data, utilizing a modified Military Stigma Scale and the General Help-Seeking Questionnaire. No significant differences were recorded between male and female officers on public stigma. Male officers reported higher levels of self-stigma. Findings have implications for administrators and legislators when setting priorities and budgets for training of police officers.