Defense Date
10-10-2023
Graduation Date
Fall 12-15-2023
Availability
One-year Embargo
Submission Type
dissertation
Degree Name
PhD
Department
Nursing
School
School of Nursing
Committee Chair
Melanie Turk
Committee Member
Rick Zoucha
Committee Member
Ken Peak
Keywords
Focused Ethnography, Health & Wellness, Police, Law Enforcement
Abstract
Law enforcement is recognized as one of the most stressful and high-risk occupations in the world. This study explored the cultural perceptions, beliefs, and values of law enforcement officers (LEOs) about their wellness. Methodology: This focused ethnography included observations and individual interviews of LEOs in the state of Nevada, USA. Leininger’s four phases of qualitative data analysis were used to analyze the data. Results: Thirty-one LEOs participated, representing 7 law enforcement agencies. Three themes were identified: 1) the badge is omnipresent in officers' lives, affecting every aspect of their world; 2) a balanced approach to officer health is important; 3) and the burden of perceptions of officers as both heroes and social outcasts impacts officer wellness. Discussion: Culture is an essential occupational element impacting law enforcement health. By understanding LEOs cultural values, perceptions, and beliefs, healthcare providers can identify and promote practices that guide officers to optimal health and wellness.
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Hintz, C. (2023). UNDERSTANDING THE CULTURAL PERCEPTIONS AND BELIEFS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT ABOUT OFFICER WELLNESS: A FOCUSED ETHNOGRAPHY (Doctoral dissertation, Duquesne University). Retrieved from https://dsc.duq.edu/etd/2295
