151 Questions
What is generally the case when a stressor is human in nature?
The degree of trauma is more severe and long lasting
What is the primary function of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS)?
To increase the body's supply of stored energy
What is vasoconstriction caused by, aside from cold temperatures?
Stress
What is the term for an irrational, overwhelming, uncontrollable fear of a specific object or event?
Phobia
What happens to the body after the danger has passed in a deadly force encounter?
There is a parasympathetic backlash
What is the main purpose of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS)?
To prepare the body for perceived danger
What percentage of officers experienced memory loss for parts of the event?
51%
What is the term used to describe the phenomenon of memory loss in high-risk situations?
Critical incident amnesia
At what heart rate do individuals typically lose complex motor control?
145 bpm
According to Dr. Artwohl, what is the nature of memories of high-risk situations?
A series of snapshots, some vivid, some blurry and some missing
What percentage of officers experienced diminished sound in deadly force situations?
85%
How much of the occurrence can be recalled on average within the first 24 hours?
30%
What is the purpose of reinterviewing participants of a critical incident after a night's sleep?
To help participants recall more details
What is the term for the loss of peripheral vision due to increased heart rate and vasoconstriction?
Tunnel vision
What is the term used to describe the experience of remembering something that did not happen?
Memory distortion
What percentage of officers experienced a heightened visual clarity in deadly force situations?
72%
What is the term for the process of tuning out sensory input in extreme stress situations?
Cortical perception
What is the name of the theory of conflict developed by Colonel John Boyd?
The time-based theory of conflict
What is the first stage of the OODA loop?
Observe
What is stress inoculation?
Prior success under stressful conditions
What is the term for the loss of depth perception and near vision due to increased heart rate and vasoconstriction?
Vision problems
What percentage of peace officers killed in deadly force situations did not defend themselves?
Over a third
What percentage of officers experienced temporary paralysis in deadly force situations?
7%
What is the term for the automatic responses that occur in deadly force situations due to drilling and practice in training?
Automatic pilot
What is the term for the experience of perceiving actions in slow motion during deadly force situations?
Slow-motion time
What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?
To keep going until the threat is no longer present
What is the most important aspect of surviving a deadly force situation?
Having the will to engage in the use of deadly force
What should a peace officer do immediately after being shot?
Do not panic and try to get medical support
What is the main reason officers should accept the possibility of using deadly force?
To avoid hesitation in a deadly force situation
What is the primary goal of a peace officer when using deadly force?
To stop the threat
What is the most difficult task a peace officer may face?
Deciding to use deadly force and take a life
Why should a peace officer prepare themselves mentally for the possibility of using deadly force?
To avoid hesitation in a deadly force situation
What should a peace officer do if they are shot and the suspect is still a threat?
Try to stop the suspect from shooting again
What is the correct response to a deadly threat according to the text?
I think I'm going to have to shoot this guy
When should a peace officer decide whether to use deadly force?
Right now, before the situation arises
What is the primary reason why some officers experience a healthier response to deadly force situations?
They are more mature and have rationalized the use of deadly force beforehand
What is the common psychological term for the exhilaration stage experienced by some people after taking the life of another person?
Survivor euphoria
What is the ultimate decision-maker in determining whether deadly force is needed in a situation?
The suspect
What is the typical first response of people upon seeing sudden, violent death?
Relief
What is the final stage in the process of responding to taking the life of another person?
Rationalization and nausea
What is the result of failing to rationalize and accept the use of deadly force beforehand?
PTSD
Why do some officers experience guilt and nausea after taking the life of another person?
Because they are not psychologically prepared to engage in deadly force
What is the benefit of resolving the decision to use deadly force in advance?
It reduces the likelihood of having to use deadly force
What is the paradox of deadly force situations?
If you are prepared to take the life of another person, you are less likely to have to do it
What is the key to experiencing a healthier response to deadly force situations?
Rationalizing and accepting the use of deadly force beforehand
What is the main objective of debriefing sessions in high-stress professions?
To delink the memory from physiological arousal
Why should you avoid asking for an account of the incident from someone who has experienced trauma?
They may not be ready to talk about it
How should you respond to someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident?
Say 'I'm just glad you're okay' and offer support
What should you avoid saying to someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident?
You're a killer or a terminator
Why is it important to educate yourself about trauma reactions?
To provide effective support and understanding
What should you do if you notice negative behavioral or emotional changes in someone who has experienced trauma?
Confront them gently
Why should you avoid drinking coffee immediately after a traumatic incident?
It may stimulate an already stimulated system
What is the goal of debriefing sessions in the military and law enforcement communities?
To develop valuable operational lessons
How should you treat someone who has experienced trauma?
Treat them as you always have and continue to show support
Why is it important to offer nonjudgmental listening to someone who has experienced trauma?
To show empathy and understanding
What is the primary benefit of using tactical breathing in a stressful situation?
To slow your thumping heartbeat and reduce anxiety
What is the relationship between the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system?
Breathing is the bridge between the two systems
What is the purpose of a critical incident debriefing?
To help individuals process and learn from the incident
What is the recommended way to conduct a critical incident debriefing?
In the country where the incident occurred, with someone the individuals know and trust leading the debriefing
What is the purpose of the sympathetic nervous system?
To prepare the body for action and respond to threats
What can happen to an individual's thinking after a critical incident?
It becomes confused and difficult to concentrate
What is the result of controlling one's breathing in a stressful situation?
The body's autonomic nervous system becomes more relaxed
What is the goal of using tactical breathing before a deadly force situation?
To calm the body and mind, preparing for a more focused response
What is the name of the technique used to control breathing and calm the body in a stressful situation?
All of the above
What is the importance of not forcing individuals to participate in a critical incident debriefing?
It is important to respect individuals' boundaries and autonomy
What is the benefit of preparing oneself for the possibility of engaging in deadly force prior to the event?
It makes one less likely to respond in panic and more likely to deter the opponent
What is the consequence of denial in a life-threatening situation?
It kills twice, physically and psychologically
What is the significance of the phrase 'Thank God it wasn't you'?
It is a phrase used to express gratitude
Why might a returning veteran of combat distance themselves from their loved ones?
Because they are experiencing all of the above
What is the typical response of loved ones to a person who has experienced a traumatic event?
Any of the above
What is the purpose of understanding that loved ones' anger is not directed at the individual?
To help the individual understand the true target of the anger
What is the benefit of being calm and rational in preparing for a traumatic event?
It reduces anxiety
What is the response of some people to experiencing a traumatic event?
Some people experience symptoms, while others do not
What might a person experience immediately after a traumatic event?
Trembling, sweating, and hyperventilation
What is the importance of understanding that one's reactions to a traumatic event are normal?
It reduces anxiety and promotes acceptance
What is the Universal Human Phobia that affects almost everyone?
Interpersonal human aggression
What happens to the body after a deadly force encounter, when the danger is over?
The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is activated
What is the primary function of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS)?
Stress response and preparation for danger
What is the effect of vasoconstriction on the body's blood vessels?
Constriction of blood vessels
Why is it important to overcome the phobia of interpersonal human aggression in peace officers?
To perform duties effectively as a peace officer
What is the term for an irrational, overwhelming, uncontrollable fear of a specific object or event?
Phobia
At what pulse rate do individuals typically experience a loss of fine motor control?
115 bpm
What percentage of officers experienced auditory exclusion in deadly force situations?
85%
What is the term for the narrowing of vision due to increased heart rate and vasoconstriction?
Tunnel vision
What percentage of officers experienced automatic pilot in deadly force situations?
74%
What is the term for the experience of perceiving actions in slow motion during deadly force situations?
Slow-motion time
What percentage of officers experienced temporary paralysis in deadly force situations?
7%
What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?
To survive the encounter
What is the term for the process of tuning out sensory input in extreme stress situations?
Cortical perception
How can officers reduce the effects of tunnel vision?
By scanning their surroundings
What is the benefit of drilling and practicing in training for deadly force situations?
It improves instinctual responses
What is the primary reason for interviewing participants of a critical incident again after they have gotten one or more nights of quality sleep?
To allow them to recall more details of the incident
What percentage of officers experienced memory loss for parts of the event?
51%
What is the term used to describe the phenomenon of memory loss in high-risk situations?
Critical incident amnesia
What is the purpose of the OODA loop in a deadly force situation?
To assess the situation and develop a plan of action
What percentage of officers experienced dissociation in a deadly force situation?
26%
What is the benefit of stress inoculation in a deadly force situation?
It increases the chances of success
What is the term used to describe the experience of remembering something that did not happen?
Memory distortion
What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?
To neutralize the threat
What is the term used to describe the experience of perceiving time as moving quickly in a deadly force situation?
Fast motion time
What is the primary reason why some officers experience a healthier response to deadly force situations?
They have prior success under stressful conditions
What is the primary reason why the decision to use deadly force should be made in advance?
To avoid hesitation during the situation
What is the ultimate decision-maker in determining whether deadly force is needed in a situation?
The suspect's actions
What is the typical first response of people upon seeing sudden, violent death?
Relief that it didn't happen to them
What is the common psychological term for the exhilaration stage experienced by some people after taking the life of another person?
Survivor euphoria
What is the result of failing to rationalize and accept the use of deadly force beforehand?
PTSD
What is the key to experiencing a healthier response to deadly force situations?
Rationalizing and accepting the use of deadly force beforehand
What is the paradox of deadly force situations?
The willingness to take a life reduces the likelihood of having to do so
What is the primary benefit of making the decision to use deadly force in advance?
Reducing hesitation during the situation
What is the final stage in the process of responding to taking the life of another person?
Lifelong process of rationalization and nausea
Why do some officers experience guilt and nausea after taking the life of another person?
Because they are forced to confront the reality of their actions
What is the result of denying the possibility of engaging in deadly force prior to the event?
You are more likely to respond in panic
What is the common phrase that loved ones might say to a person who has survived a traumatic experience?
Thank God it wasn't you
What is the name of the author who wrote about the natural phenomenon of dying and the response stages to death?
Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
What is the primary reason why some people might experience anger towards a person who has survived a traumatic experience?
They are angry at the world that tried to harm their loved one
What is the importance of understanding that one's reactions to a traumatic event are normal?
It helps to prevent feelings of guilt and shame
What is the advice given to a person who has experienced a traumatic event and is met with anger from their loved ones?
Hug them, hold them, and cherish them
What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?
To protect themselves and others
What is the benefit of mentally preparing for the possibility of using deadly force?
It reduces the likelihood of responding in panic
What is the consequence of failing to prepare for the possibility of using deadly force?
Denial kills you twice: physically and psychologically
What is the importance of understanding that one's loved ones may say 'Thank God it wasn't you' after a traumatic event?
It helps to understand that their words are a reflection of their own emotions
What is the primary goal of tactical breathing?
To slow down the heart rate and reduce tremble in the hands
What is the autonomic nervous system responsible for?
Involuntary actions, such as heartbeat and perspiration
What is the purpose of debriefing sessions in high-stress professions?
To process and cope with the traumatic experience
What is the term for the technique of slowing down breathing to control the autonomic nervous system?
All of the above
What is the recommended approach to conducting debriefing sessions?
Not forcing individuals to participate and conducting debriefings with someone they know and trust
What is the benefit of using tactical breathing?
It reduces anxiety and promotes calmness
What is the somatic nervous system responsible for?
Conscious control of bodily functions
What is the term for the process of controlling the autonomic nervous system through breathing?
Autogenic training
Why is it important to conduct debriefing sessions in the war zone if possible?
To reduce the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder
What is the goal of controlling the autonomic nervous system?
To reduce anxiety and promote calmness
What is the primary goal of a debriefing session in high-stress professions?
To develop valuable operational lessons and help individuals make peace with their memory
What should you avoid doing when approaching someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident?
Asking for an account of the incident
Why is it important to educate yourself about trauma reactions?
To understand how to respond appropriately to someone who has experienced trauma
What should you say to someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident if you are unsure of what to say or do?
I'm just glad you are okay
Why should you avoid making lighthearted comments or jokes about someone's traumatic experience?
It may trigger negative emotions in the individual
What is the primary objective of a debriefing session in high-stress professions?
To develop valuable operational lessons and help individuals make peace with their memory
Why is it important to continue treating someone who has experienced trauma with respect and compassion after the incident?
To maintain a sense of normalcy and support
What should you do if someone who has experienced trauma wants to talk about their experience?
Listen to them without judgment or interruption
Why should you avoid suggesting how someone who has experienced trauma should be feeling?
It may not be an appropriate response to their situation
What is the benefit of providing a structured environment for individuals who have experienced trauma to process their experiences?
It helps them make sense of their traumatic experience
What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?
To stop the deadly threat
What should a peace officer do immediately after being shot?
Get medical support and prevent further harm
What is the most difficult task a peace officer may face?
Deciding to use deadly force
What is the main reason officers should accept the possibility of using deadly force?
To protect themselves and others
What should a peace officer do if they are shot and the suspect is still a threat?
Try to stop the suspect from shooting again
What is the correct response to a deadly threat according to the text?
Say to yourself, 'I think I’m going to have to shoot this guy'
When should a peace officer decide whether to use deadly force?
Right now, before the situation arises
What is the result of failing to rationalize and accept the use of deadly force beforehand?
A world of hurt and guilt
What is the primary goal of a peace officer when using deadly force?
To stop the threat
What is the benefit of resolving the decision to use deadly force in advance?
It helps to avoid panic and maintain control
Study Notes
Phobias and Human Aggression
- A phobia is an irrational, overwhelming, and uncontrollable fear of a specific object or event.
- The Universal Human Phobia is interpersonal human aggression, which affects almost everyone.
- The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) states that trauma caused by human factors is usually more severe and long-lasting.
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
- The ANS consists of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).
- Most organs in the body receive impulses from both the SNS and PNS, which work opposite each other.
- The SNS is associated with the "fight or flight" response, preparing the body for perceived danger.
- The PNS is associated with relaxation and increases the body's supply of stored energy.
Physiological Effects of Stress
- Vasoconstriction (constriction of blood vessels) can occur due to cold temperatures or stress.
- At 115 bpm, fine motor control is lost, and at 145 bpm, complex motor control is lost.
- At 175 bpm, the effects of vasoconstriction become catastrophic, causing muscles to stop working.
- Increased heart rate and vasoconstriction can cause vision problems, including tunnel vision, loss of depth perception, and loss of near vision.
Perceptual Distractions in Deadly Force Situations
- Research by police psychologist Alexis Arthohol found that:
- 85% of officers experienced diminished sound (auditory exclusion)
- 16% experienced intensified sounds
- 80% experienced tunnel vision
- 74% experienced "automatic pilot" (manifesting trained responses)
- 72% experienced heightened visual clarity
- 65% experienced slow-motion time
- 7% experienced temporary paralysis
- 51% experienced memory loss for parts of the event
- 47% experienced memory loss for some of their actions
OODA Loop Theory
- U.S. Air Force Colonel John Boyd developed the OODA loop theory, which involves:
- Observe: being aware of surroundings and environment
- Orient: gathering and deciphering information to develop a plan
- Decide: choosing a plan of action
- Act: completing the plan of action
Stress Inoculation and Survival
- Stress inoculation is the concept that prior success under stressful conditions acclimatizes one to similar situations and promotes future success.
- Training and mental preparation can help individuals develop survival skills and reduce the risk of freezing in deadly force situations.
Will to Engage in Deadly Force
- The will to engage in deadly force is the most difficult aspect for officers to accept.
- Accepting the possibility of having to use deadly force beforehand can help reduce hesitation and improve response to threats.
Response to Taking a Life
-
There are three stages of response to taking a life:
- Exhilaration (survivor euphoria)
- Remorse and nausea
- Lifelong process of rationalization and reconciliation
-
Preparation and mental acceptance can help mitigate the negative effects of taking a life.### Dealing with Anger and Trauma
-
When dealing with an angry spouse, remember that their anger is not directed at you, but at the world that threatened their loved one.
-
This anger can be displaced onto you, causing distance from loved ones when you need them most.
-
As a professional peace officer, you can handle displaced anger and still show love and care to your family.
Post-Combat Responses
- After a traumatic event, you may experience physical symptoms such as trembling, sweating, chills, nausea, and hyperventilation.
- These symptoms are normal and can be managed with breathing exercises.
- You may also experience emotional reactions like anger, sadness, irritability, and anxiety, which can last for days or weeks after the event.
- Breathing exercises, such as tactical breathing, can help delink physiological arousal from the memory of the event.
Tactical Breathing
- Tactical breathing is a technique that can be used in stressful situations to slow down your heart rate, reduce tremors, and promote calm and control.
- It involves breathing in through your nose for a count of four, holding for a count of four, exhaling through your lips for a count of four, and holding empty for a count of four.
- This technique can be used before, during, and after a deadly force situation to calm and prepare yourself.
- With practice, you can tailor the technique to your body's needs.
Critical Incident Debriefings
- Critical incident debriefings are essential for helping individuals process and cope with traumatic events.
- Debriefings should not be forced, but rather encouraged, and should be conducted by someone the individual trusts and respects.
- The debriefing should be part of a continuum of psychological support, including referrals for counseling, education, and follow-up.
- The goal of debriefing is to delink the memory from the physiological arousal, using techniques like tactical breathing.
Supporting Trauma Survivors
- When approaching someone who has experienced a traumatic incident, initiate contact with a phone call or note to show concern and availability.
- Treat the person with respect and compassion, avoiding judgment or assumptions.
- Listen nonjudgmentally and offer support, avoiding questions about the incident itself.
- Avoid using alcohol or stimulating substances, and encourage self-care and normal routine.
- Educate yourself about trauma reactions to provide better support.
Phobias and Human Aggression
- A phobia is an irrational, overwhelming, and uncontrollable fear of a specific object or event.
- The Universal Human Phobia is interpersonal human aggression, which affects almost everyone.
- The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) states that trauma caused by human factors is usually more severe and long-lasting.
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
- The ANS consists of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).
- Most organs in the body receive impulses from both the SNS and PNS, which work opposite each other.
- The SNS is associated with the "fight or flight" response, preparing the body for perceived danger.
- The PNS is associated with relaxation and increases the body's supply of stored energy.
Physiological Effects of Stress
- Vasoconstriction (constriction of blood vessels) can occur due to cold temperatures or stress.
- At 115 bpm, fine motor control is lost, and at 145 bpm, complex motor control is lost.
- At 175 bpm, the effects of vasoconstriction become catastrophic, causing muscles to stop working.
- Increased heart rate and vasoconstriction can cause vision problems, including tunnel vision, loss of depth perception, and loss of near vision.
Perceptual Distractions in Deadly Force Situations
- Research by police psychologist Alexis Arthohol found that:
- 85% of officers experienced diminished sound (auditory exclusion)
- 16% experienced intensified sounds
- 80% experienced tunnel vision
- 74% experienced "automatic pilot" (manifesting trained responses)
- 72% experienced heightened visual clarity
- 65% experienced slow-motion time
- 7% experienced temporary paralysis
- 51% experienced memory loss for parts of the event
- 47% experienced memory loss for some of their actions
OODA Loop Theory
- U.S. Air Force Colonel John Boyd developed the OODA loop theory, which involves:
- Observe: being aware of surroundings and environment
- Orient: gathering and deciphering information to develop a plan
- Decide: choosing a plan of action
- Act: completing the plan of action
Stress Inoculation and Survival
- Stress inoculation is the concept that prior success under stressful conditions acclimatizes one to similar situations and promotes future success.
- Training and mental preparation can help individuals develop survival skills and reduce the risk of freezing in deadly force situations.
Will to Engage in Deadly Force
- The will to engage in deadly force is the most difficult aspect for officers to accept.
- Accepting the possibility of having to use deadly force beforehand can help reduce hesitation and improve response to threats.
Response to Taking a Life
-
There are three stages of response to taking a life:
- Exhilaration (survivor euphoria)
- Remorse and nausea
- Lifelong process of rationalization and reconciliation
-
Preparation and mental acceptance can help mitigate the negative effects of taking a life.### Dealing with Anger and Trauma
-
When dealing with an angry spouse, remember that their anger is not directed at you, but at the world that threatened their loved one.
-
This anger can be displaced onto you, causing distance from loved ones when you need them most.
-
As a professional peace officer, you can handle displaced anger and still show love and care to your family.
Post-Combat Responses
- After a traumatic event, you may experience physical symptoms such as trembling, sweating, chills, nausea, and hyperventilation.
- These symptoms are normal and can be managed with breathing exercises.
- You may also experience emotional reactions like anger, sadness, irritability, and anxiety, which can last for days or weeks after the event.
- Breathing exercises, such as tactical breathing, can help delink physiological arousal from the memory of the event.
Tactical Breathing
- Tactical breathing is a technique that can be used in stressful situations to slow down your heart rate, reduce tremors, and promote calm and control.
- It involves breathing in through your nose for a count of four, holding for a count of four, exhaling through your lips for a count of four, and holding empty for a count of four.
- This technique can be used before, during, and after a deadly force situation to calm and prepare yourself.
- With practice, you can tailor the technique to your body's needs.
Critical Incident Debriefings
- Critical incident debriefings are essential for helping individuals process and cope with traumatic events.
- Debriefings should not be forced, but rather encouraged, and should be conducted by someone the individual trusts and respects.
- The debriefing should be part of a continuum of psychological support, including referrals for counseling, education, and follow-up.
- The goal of debriefing is to delink the memory from the physiological arousal, using techniques like tactical breathing.
Supporting Trauma Survivors
- When approaching someone who has experienced a traumatic incident, initiate contact with a phone call or note to show concern and availability.
- Treat the person with respect and compassion, avoiding judgment or assumptions.
- Listen nonjudgmentally and offer support, avoiding questions about the incident itself.
- Avoid using alcohol or stimulating substances, and encourage self-care and normal routine.
- Educate yourself about trauma reactions to provide better support.
This quiz explores the physical effects of increasing heart rates on the human body, including loss of motor control, vasoconstriction, and vision problems.
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