Emotional coping by chance: Experiences of emotional coping strategies among on-scene commanders in the Norwegian police services

Abstract

The purpose of our research is to identify the emotional coping strategies used by on-scene commanders, both to safeguard their own well-being and that of their policing colleagues. However, understanding the conditions and application of sustainable coping strategies has proven to be more complex than the literature considers. Using explorative qualitative methods, the data collection includes two studies with on-scene commanders across Norway covering minor and major incidents. We found that when on-scene commanders are left to develop their own coping strategies, they rely on random practices that can have negative long-term consequences on officers’ emotional well-being. We identified four conditions as crucial for the development of healthy emotional coping strategies: mandatory defuse and debrief practices, level of experience, social support, and leadership. The main conclusion emerging from our research is the necessary institutionalization of formal and appropriate defuse and debrief practices, including the use of colleague support and psychologists.