Recently I posted an interview I did on Romanian TV when I visited Oradea. The host, Camelia Pascui, sent me an  email that contained some questions from her viewers. I thought you might enjoy my responses to her. Incidentally, the title of the original post was “Why Do Americans Eat Every Cop Donuts?” This was the translation of their website rendered by the Google translation software. I used it to attract viewers to the site. It in no way reflects the quality of the translation that was provided by Mihalea Pop. Quite the contrary. She did a most excellent job…!

Question 1: What are the methods used by American police officers for reducing professional stress and if you are aware of these issues of Romanian police officers regarding this?

My response: Many police officers use physical exercise as a way of reducing stress. It is also important to spend time doing positive activities that are not work-related, particularly if it includes spending time with their families. An overall wellness program that includes exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest and recreation are important. Some police agencies in America refer officers to psychologists if they are having certain types of stress-related problems, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, after they are involved in a violent incident, such as shooting a suspect, or experience some other type of traumatic event. In recent years, we have implemented a program called Critical Incident Stress Debriefings where a psychologist or a team of specially trained police officers will meet in a group or individually with officers who have been exposed to stressful incidents such as the murder or suicide of a colleague. I believe that all of these programs are beneficial, but I also believe that officers with strong character are better able to keep their lives in balance and deal with the stresses of law enforcement.

Question 2: How do you comment the connection between the police office character within active duty and the character acquired from his parenting. Does this character can be modified over time as a result from working induced stress in more years?

My response: There is no doubt that much of our character and value systems are formed at an early age and that parents play a critical role. But I also believe that an individual can improve his character even as an adult. Some psychologists do not agree with that, but I have witnessed it first-hand. In fact, I know that my own character has improved as I have spent time learning more about the principles of good character, incorporating them into my own life, and promoting them in the lives of others. Police agencies can help by promoting good character within the organization itself. We teach leaders a five-step process: i) clearly establish the standards of good character; ii) communicate the standards through policies, training, etc.; iii) encourage the standards through praises and recognition; iv) model the standards through good leadership; and v) enforce the standards within the disciplinary process.

Question 3: How can corruption modify the character and health of a police office and his or her personal family?

My response: Corruption is a major concern with police agencies all over the world. I am currently working in Afghanistan which has one of the most corrupt police agencies on the planet. In my opinion, most police corruption comes from officers operating “out from under authority.” They fail to recognize that the authority they have has been delegated to them from others. And that their authority ultimately comes from the people they represent, particularly in a constitutional republic like Romania or America. When they fail to recognize this fact, it is very easy for them to reject the proper relationship with their authorities and seek to satisfy their own egos or accomplish their own agendas. This leads to an abuse of their authority which can include corruption. The central teaching of Police Dynamics is to encourage officers to properly respect their authorities and align themselves with the right principles.