What are common causes of stress in police work?

Exposure to traumatic events is a well-documented source of stress in police work. Officers frequently encounter situations that involve violence, death, and suffering, which can have a profound psychological impact. This exposure can lead to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The nature of police work often requires officers to confront the worst of human behavior, which can lead to chronic stress responses.

In contrast, the other options do not typically contribute to the same level of stress. While long training hours and administrative meetings can be demanding and may lead to some stress, they generally do not carry the same weight as experiencing traumatic events. Similarly, working in a comfortable environment tends to be associated with reduced stress rather than increased levels. Thus, exposure to traumatic events is recognized as a primary source of stress for law enforcement professionals.