Job Stress and Job Satisfaction Among Police Officers in Trinidad and Tobago: The Mediating Role of Social Support

• In Event: Roundtable: Policing

Abstract

The current study examined the effects of key demographic variables, as well as other potential predictors of job satisfaction among law enforcement officers in Trinidad and Tobago. Specifically, the present study utilized survey data to investigate the extent to which job stress (internal and external) affects job satisfaction among police officers. The direct and mediating role of social support was also explored. A sample of 434 officers, 309 males and 125 females of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, participated in the study. Participants completed the Police Stress Questionnaire, the Level of Job Satisfaction Survey, and the Social Support Survey, which measures peer, family, supervisory and community support. Data were analyzed using Regression analysis and Baron and Kenny’s mediator-moderator distinction. The findings revealed that internal stress factors played a significantly higher role in job satisfaction than external influences. In terms of social support, peer and family support played a significant mediating role in the relationship between job stress and job satisfaction. The study’s findings are discussed within the socio-cultural context of Trinidad and Tobago. Recommendations are suggested for counseling services and other intervention for law enforcement officers.

Authors

• Linda Lila Mohammed, University of Trinidad and Tobago

• Randy Seepersad, University of the West Indies