Date

8-29-2024

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Laura L. Rolen

Keywords

Moral Injury, PTSD, Race, Trauma, Police Officers, Mental Health, Public Health, Black Community

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to explore the possibility of Moral Injury (MI) in police officers of color. This is a topic that is steeped in stigma and cultural dynamics, both for the community of police and communities of color. The aim is to add to the existing research on MI and how it may impact those who occupy dual special populations. The study approached targeted police advocacy organizations of color for recruitment nationwide. This study recruited 10 police officers of color from multiple states and explored their personal stories. This study used video recordings to capture qualitative data and surveys to evaluate potential trauma conditions. The use of phenomenological analysis with this population adds to existing research and presents a novel angle for further understanding MI as a mental health construct. While MI in police officers has been explored in other nations, the topic is just emerging in the United States. In addition, no known studies have been done isolating race in MI. This study sheds light on race, adversity, MI, health disparity, the impact of trauma on police officers, and people they serve. The implications could prove to yield better understanding of MI in Black officers, police and MI. It could also lead to better understanding of trauma in the workplace and the role of faith and resiliency. The study found consistencies and similarities between participant narratives and MI. The study also found evidence of strong resiliency worthy of further study.

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