6 answers
Laura
Student
Imperial, California
3
Questions
Updated
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When being a Cop does bravery play a big part in the job?
I am 14 years old, 8th grader, and bilingual.
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6 answers
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Laura,
In all honesty, when you get in the thick of things, there's no time to be afraid, or brave, or anything else. You act quickly based on training, and it's not until it's all over that you think about what "could" have happened. The speed with which officers must react in a crisis is something most civilians do not understand. You don't have time to weigh options and consequences, you react based on training.
Now, on the subject of courage. . . I found that a lot of my self-confidence, especially as a rookie, came from the uniform. I was "playing" a role, and the people I interacted with assumed I had the knowledge and skills to do the job, and that helped a lot. Once you handle a few situations, you will develop greater courage and confidence - each call builds on the one before it.
I hope this helps!
Kim
In all honesty, when you get in the thick of things, there's no time to be afraid, or brave, or anything else. You act quickly based on training, and it's not until it's all over that you think about what "could" have happened. The speed with which officers must react in a crisis is something most civilians do not understand. You don't have time to weigh options and consequences, you react based on training.
Now, on the subject of courage. . . I found that a lot of my self-confidence, especially as a rookie, came from the uniform. I was "playing" a role, and the people I interacted with assumed I had the knowledge and skills to do the job, and that helped a lot. Once you handle a few situations, you will develop greater courage and confidence - each call builds on the one before it.
I hope this helps!
Kim
Jennifer Bowman
Sales
4
Answers
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Laura, bravery and courage play a big part in a cop's job. It gives them the strength to deal with tough situations. It also gives them the ability to stay focused when there is so much going on around them. They are doing all that they are doing for a greater purpose, beyond them. This could be scary for anyone.
Bradley Lauseng
Law enforcement, Corrections
5
Answers
Camp Pendleton North, California
Updated
Bradley’s Answer
100%, there are several challenges in the law enforcement field, and you must be brave to overcome them. It is one of the more demanding jobs and it will take courage and bravery to put that uniform on every day and fulfill your duties!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Laura,
The Role of Courage in Law Enforcement
The essence of courage is deeply woven into the fabric of police work. Police officers are often thrust into perilous and unpredictable circumstances, demanding them to summon their courage to safeguard themselves and others. Here's a closer look at why courage is pivotal in law enforcement:
Facing Danger: Police officers are routinely called upon to handle emergencies, ongoing crimes, and potentially hostile situations. In these moments, they must stay composed under stress and make immediate decisions that could affect their own safety and that of others.
Public Protection: Upholding the law and guaranteeing public safety are primary duties of police officers. This role can sometimes mean confronting individuals who are a menace to society, a daunting and risky task that calls for courage.
Overcoming Challenges: Police officers can face opposition, aggression, or even violence while carrying out their duties. Courage is vital for officers to manage difficult situations and defuse conflicts effectively.
Emotional Fortitude: Courage in law enforcement also encompasses emotional resilience, as officers need to deal with stress, trauma, and witnessing unsettling events while continuing to execute their duties professionally.
Building Community Trust: Displaying courage in dangerous situations can foster trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. When officers exhibit bravery and commitment to protecting others, it can boost public faith in the police force.
In summary, courage is an indispensable quality for police officers as they navigate the intricacies and hazards tied to law enforcement duties. It empowers them to tackle challenges directly, safeguard the public, uphold justice, and maintain societal order.
Top 3 Reliable Sources:
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin: The FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin offers research, training, and best practices for law enforcement professionals, providing insights into various facets of policing, including the significance of courage in the field.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ): The NIJ is the research, development, and evaluation arm of the U.S. Department of Justice. It carries out studies on law enforcement practices and policies, illuminating the role of courage in law enforcement.
Police Executive Research Forum (PERF): PERF is an entity that concentrates on critical issues in policing and offers guidance to law enforcement leaders. Their research frequently covers topics related to officer safety, resilience, and professionalism in challenging situations.
God Bless!
James Constantine Frangos.
The Role of Courage in Law Enforcement
The essence of courage is deeply woven into the fabric of police work. Police officers are often thrust into perilous and unpredictable circumstances, demanding them to summon their courage to safeguard themselves and others. Here's a closer look at why courage is pivotal in law enforcement:
Facing Danger: Police officers are routinely called upon to handle emergencies, ongoing crimes, and potentially hostile situations. In these moments, they must stay composed under stress and make immediate decisions that could affect their own safety and that of others.
Public Protection: Upholding the law and guaranteeing public safety are primary duties of police officers. This role can sometimes mean confronting individuals who are a menace to society, a daunting and risky task that calls for courage.
Overcoming Challenges: Police officers can face opposition, aggression, or even violence while carrying out their duties. Courage is vital for officers to manage difficult situations and defuse conflicts effectively.
Emotional Fortitude: Courage in law enforcement also encompasses emotional resilience, as officers need to deal with stress, trauma, and witnessing unsettling events while continuing to execute their duties professionally.
Building Community Trust: Displaying courage in dangerous situations can foster trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. When officers exhibit bravery and commitment to protecting others, it can boost public faith in the police force.
In summary, courage is an indispensable quality for police officers as they navigate the intricacies and hazards tied to law enforcement duties. It empowers them to tackle challenges directly, safeguard the public, uphold justice, and maintain societal order.
Top 3 Reliable Sources:
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin: The FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin offers research, training, and best practices for law enforcement professionals, providing insights into various facets of policing, including the significance of courage in the field.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ): The NIJ is the research, development, and evaluation arm of the U.S. Department of Justice. It carries out studies on law enforcement practices and policies, illuminating the role of courage in law enforcement.
Police Executive Research Forum (PERF): PERF is an entity that concentrates on critical issues in policing and offers guidance to law enforcement leaders. Their research frequently covers topics related to officer safety, resilience, and professionalism in challenging situations.
God Bless!
James Constantine Frangos.
Faith Allen
Police Investigator
4
Answers
Shepherdsville, Kentucky
Updated
Faith’s Answer
Hello Laura! Indeed, courage is key! Being a police officer can sometimes put you in challenging or even frightening situations. However, always remember to rely on your inner strength and the support of your colleagues. With trust and bravery, you're sure to succeed.
Michael Branham
Retired 40 plus years Officer to Chief (Director/Constable, as well).
31
Answers
Peoria, Arizona
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Faith's answer was spot on, Laura! It is both normal & very important to occasionally be afraid in law enforcement. The key is learning to challenge that fear into appropriate action. Our training, mentoring & your own skill development over time will help you channel that fear into a positive!
Meet an officer and ask them how they work through these difficult situations! If they have a moment, they will no doubt give great insight for you to think about.
Best Wishes!
Meet an officer and ask them how they work through these difficult situations! If they have a moment, they will no doubt give great insight for you to think about.
Best Wishes!