Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice
Advisor
Abigail Tucker
Committee Member
Grace Telesco
Committee Member
Marcelo Castro
Keywords
help-seeking behaviors, law enforcement, Mental health stigma, self-stigma
Abstract
This applied dissertation investigates the prevalence and impact of mental health stigma among law enforcement officers (LEOs) in the United States. Despite growing awareness of the importance of mental health in the law enforcement community, stigma surrounding mental illness remains a significant barrier to help-seeking behaviors among officers. The study employed a research design that examined attitudes, perceptions, and experiences related to mental health stigma among LEOs.
Through online self-assessment surveys administered via a secure portal, participants provided insights into their attitudes toward mental illness, perceptions of stigma, and willingness to seek help for mental health concerns.
Data analysis revealed that both organizational and societal stigmas significantly influence officers’ reluctance to seek help. Higher-ranked officers and those with more years of service tended to perceive greater stigma, although these trends were not statistically significant. The attitudes of peers and supervisors were found to be major deterrents to help-seeking behaviors, with many respondents expressing fear of negative consequences associated with disclosing mental health issues.
The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding mental health stigma within the law enforcement community and inform the development of targeted interventions and support mechanisms to address this critical issue. By shedding light on the prevalence and impact of mental health stigma among law enforcement officers, this research seeks to promote the well-being and resilience of those who serve and protect our communities. Through collaboration with law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, the study aims to foster a culture of openness, support, and mental health awareness within the law enforcement profession.
NSUWorks Citation
Nicholas David Chestnut. 2024. Exploring Mental Health Stigma Among Law Enforcement Officers. Doctoral dissertation. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. (713)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_etd/713.
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