The role of individual and organisational factors in understanding trauma misperceptions among police officers

• In Event: POLWG Panel 17. Police Officer wellbeing, understanding trauma and risk mitigation

Abstract

The way police perceive a victim’s behaviour, emotions and recollections can have important implications for the way a criminal case is processed and can impact upon the likelihood of secondary victimisation. Recent research has therefore begun to measure the correlates of trauma misperceptions among police officers. The current study draws on data collected from police officers in an Australian jurisdiction to better understand the predictors of trauma misperceptions. We extend prior research by incorporating individual as well as organisational predictors. Our findings provide practical guidance around how police organisations can best reduce trauma misperceptions among police officers.

Authors

• Elise Sargeant, Griffith University

• Henrietta Taylor, Griffith University

• Margo Van Felius, Griffith University

• Christine Bond, Griffith University

• Silke Meyer, Griffith University