ERIC Number: ED632700
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 120
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3744-1672-5
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Law Enforcement Education and Disability Training
Hedgepeth-Smith, Connie R.
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, Regent University
This study investigated the levels of training law enforcement officers (LEOs) receive regarding mental illness, developmental/cognitive delays, schizophrenia, or an autism spectrum disorder. Coleman and Cotton (2014) stated that there is a need for LEOs to be knowledgeable on the signs and symptoms of mental illness and interventions that are appropriate to use during interactions. Therefore, the goal of this study was to add to the existing knowledge regarding LEO training as it relates to individuals with disabilities. Fifteen individuals (six females and nine males) participated in this study. This generic qualitative study utilized semi structured interviews to elicit data. Data were analyzed using the Braun and Clarke (2013) thematic analysis method; eight themes emerged. All participants indicated that they needed more training about this population. LEOs indicated that they were not adequately informed regarding the available community resources; therefore, they were unable to properly refer victims to these services. Many participants stated that LEOs are not experts on mental health, and that immediate access to on-call, on-site counseling for mental health crises was essential for the well-being of individuals involved. Participants agreed that disability training would have to be mandated to ensure attendance by LEOs. This study demonstrates that the disability training of LEOs remains inadequate; it also provides valuable information about how training can be improved, thus helping LEOs respond better to individuals with disabilities. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A