Date

11-13-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Nathan Borrett

Keywords

Mental Health, Minority Police Officers, Law Enforcement, Workplace Discrimination, Organizational Culture, Mental Health Stigma, Occupational Stress, Psychological Distress, Minority Stress Theory, Phenomenological Study, Qualitative Research, Resilience, Coping Mechanisms, Racial Bias, Cultural Insensitivity, Diversity and Inclusion, Organizational Support, Police Wellness Programs, Systemic Racism, Identity Conflict, Burnout, Trauma, Job Satisfaction, Institutional Support, Culturally Competent Interventions, Leadership, Community Trust, Emotional Well-Being, Faith-Based Coping, Stress Management, Law Enforcement Diversity, Officer Retention, Workplace Equity

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

Law enforcement officers often deal with complex work environments, including negative public opinions, challenging legal systems, and resource constraints. These factors can compound to make officers' work more psychologically stressful. This is especially true for minority officers who also have to deal with daily incidents of prejudice, discrimination, and cultural misunderstandings within the police force. The current qualitative phenomenological study employed semi-structured interviews to investigate the experiences of minority police officers, in an effort to gain more insight into their mental health experiences. The results of this study show that discrimination, systemic issues, and stigma associated with accessing psychological help all play a role in officer anxiety, depression, and isolation. Participants also explained their methods for coping with this reality, including spiritual practices, leaning on fellow officers for support, and developing resilience. The study's findings point to the need for further research and institutional reform to improve the experiences of minority officers. Some recommended solutions included implementing culturally sensitive mental health resources, increasing access to mentoring programs, and diversity training in the workplace. For future research, it is suggested that the impact of targeted institutional interventions be studied and the long-term effects of culturally competent support systems.

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