How PTSD Affects Military Veterans In Law Enforcement

Posted: August 28, 2017

By Dr. Allan Conkey, Faculty Member, Criminal Justice at American Military University

Military veterans make perfect candidates for police departments. But how do you help those with existing PTSD?

Civilian law enforcement is among the most sought-after careers for military veterans upon separation from the armed forces. This widely acknowledged trend helps explain why upwards of 20 percent of those working in law enforcement have military experience, compared to roughly 6 percent of society at large.

As a retired officer and a three-time military chief of police, I would be among the last to argue against the benefits of police agencies recruiting veterans. Many of the characteristics instilled in military veterans – such as discipline, integrity, responsibility, and the ability to make tough calls under pressure – also are qualities desired in police officers.

However, hiring military service members can bring along challenges.

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Contributed by American Military University.