Physiological Effects of Increased Heart Rate
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Questions and Answers

What is generally the case when a stressor is human in nature?

  • The degree of trauma is more severe and long lasting (correct)
  • The degree of trauma is less severe and short lasting
  • The degree of trauma remains the same
  • The degree of trauma cannot be determined

    • What is the primary function of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS)?

  • To increase the body's supply of stored energy (correct)
  • To control involuntary movements
  • To prepare the body for perceived danger
  • To regulate body temperature

    • What is vasoconstriction caused by, aside from cold temperatures?

  • Stress (correct)
  • Hunger
  • Exercise
  • Sleep

    • What is the term for an irrational, overwhelming, uncontrollable fear of a specific object or event?

    <p>Phobia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the body after the danger has passed in a deadly force encounter?

    <p>There is a parasympathetic backlash</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS)?

    <p>To prepare the body for perceived danger</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced memory loss for parts of the event?

    <p>51%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe the phenomenon of memory loss in high-risk situations?

    <p>Critical incident amnesia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what heart rate do individuals typically lose complex motor control?

    <p>145 bpm</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Dr. Artwohl, what is the nature of memories of high-risk situations?

    <p>A series of snapshots, some vivid, some blurry and some missing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced diminished sound in deadly force situations?

    <p>85%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much of the occurrence can be recalled on average within the first 24 hours?

    <p>30%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of reinterviewing participants of a critical incident after a night's sleep?

    <p>To help participants recall more details</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the loss of peripheral vision due to increased heart rate and vasoconstriction?

    <p>Tunnel vision</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe the experience of remembering something that did not happen?

    <p>Memory distortion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced a heightened visual clarity in deadly force situations?

    <p>72%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the process of tuning out sensory input in extreme stress situations?

    <p>Cortical perception</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the theory of conflict developed by Colonel John Boyd?

    <p>The time-based theory of conflict</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first stage of the OODA loop?

    <p>Observe</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is stress inoculation?

    <p>Prior success under stressful conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the loss of depth perception and near vision due to increased heart rate and vasoconstriction?

    <p>Vision problems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of peace officers killed in deadly force situations did not defend themselves?

    <p>Over a third</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced temporary paralysis in deadly force situations?

    <p>7%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the automatic responses that occur in deadly force situations due to drilling and practice in training?

    <p>Automatic pilot</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the experience of perceiving actions in slow motion during deadly force situations?

    <p>Slow-motion time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?

    <p>To keep going until the threat is no longer present</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most important aspect of surviving a deadly force situation?

    <p>Having the will to engage in the use of deadly force</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a peace officer do immediately after being shot?

    <p>Do not panic and try to get medical support</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason officers should accept the possibility of using deadly force?

    <p>To avoid hesitation in a deadly force situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a peace officer when using deadly force?

    <p>To stop the threat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most difficult task a peace officer may face?

    <p>Deciding to use deadly force and take a life</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why should a peace officer prepare themselves mentally for the possibility of using deadly force?

    <p>To avoid hesitation in a deadly force situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a peace officer do if they are shot and the suspect is still a threat?

    <p>Try to stop the suspect from shooting again</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct response to a deadly threat according to the text?

    <p>I think I'm going to have to shoot this guy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should a peace officer decide whether to use deadly force?

    <p>Right now, before the situation arises</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason why some officers experience a healthier response to deadly force situations?

    <p>They are more mature and have rationalized the use of deadly force beforehand</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common psychological term for the exhilaration stage experienced by some people after taking the life of another person?

    <p>Survivor euphoria</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the ultimate decision-maker in determining whether deadly force is needed in a situation?

    <p>The suspect</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical first response of people upon seeing sudden, violent death?

    <p>Relief</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the final stage in the process of responding to taking the life of another person?

    <p>Rationalization and nausea</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the result of failing to rationalize and accept the use of deadly force beforehand?

    <p>PTSD</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do some officers experience guilt and nausea after taking the life of another person?

    <p>Because they are not psychologically prepared to engage in deadly force</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of resolving the decision to use deadly force in advance?

    <p>It reduces the likelihood of having to use deadly force</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the paradox of deadly force situations?

    <p>If you are prepared to take the life of another person, you are less likely to have to do it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key to experiencing a healthier response to deadly force situations?

    <p>Rationalizing and accepting the use of deadly force beforehand</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main objective of debriefing sessions in high-stress professions?

    <p>To delink the memory from physiological arousal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why should you avoid asking for an account of the incident from someone who has experienced trauma?

    <p>They may not be ready to talk about it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should you respond to someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident?

    <p>Say 'I'm just glad you're okay' and offer support</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you avoid saying to someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident?

    <p>You're a killer or a terminator</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to educate yourself about trauma reactions?

    <p>To provide effective support and understanding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you do if you notice negative behavioral or emotional changes in someone who has experienced trauma?

    <p>Confront them gently</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why should you avoid drinking coffee immediately after a traumatic incident?

    <p>It may stimulate an already stimulated system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the goal of debriefing sessions in the military and law enforcement communities?

    <p>To develop valuable operational lessons</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should you treat someone who has experienced trauma?

    <p>Treat them as you always have and continue to show support</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to offer nonjudgmental listening to someone who has experienced trauma?

    <p>To show empathy and understanding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary benefit of using tactical breathing in a stressful situation?

    <p>To slow your thumping heartbeat and reduce anxiety</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>Breathing is the bridge between the two systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of a critical incident debriefing?

    <p>To help individuals process and learn from the incident</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended way to conduct a critical incident debriefing?

    <p>In the country where the incident occurred, with someone the individuals know and trust leading the debriefing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the sympathetic nervous system?

    <p>To prepare the body for action and respond to threats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can happen to an individual's thinking after a critical incident?

    <p>It becomes confused and difficult to concentrate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the result of controlling one's breathing in a stressful situation?

    <p>The body's autonomic nervous system becomes more relaxed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the goal of using tactical breathing before a deadly force situation?

    <p>To calm the body and mind, preparing for a more focused response</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the technique used to control breathing and calm the body in a stressful situation?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the importance of not forcing individuals to participate in a critical incident debriefing?

    <p>It is important to respect individuals' boundaries and autonomy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of preparing oneself for the possibility of engaging in deadly force prior to the event?

    <p>It makes one less likely to respond in panic and more likely to deter the opponent</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of denial in a life-threatening situation?

    <p>It kills twice, physically and psychologically</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the phrase 'Thank God it wasn't you'?

    <p>It is a phrase used to express gratitude</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might a returning veteran of combat distance themselves from their loved ones?

    <p>Because they are experiencing all of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical response of loved ones to a person who has experienced a traumatic event?

    <p>Any of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of understanding that loved ones' anger is not directed at the individual?

    <p>To help the individual understand the true target of the anger</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of being calm and rational in preparing for a traumatic event?

    <p>It reduces anxiety</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the response of some people to experiencing a traumatic event?

    <p>Some people experience symptoms, while others do not</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might a person experience immediately after a traumatic event?

    <p>Trembling, sweating, and hyperventilation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the importance of understanding that one's reactions to a traumatic event are normal?

    <p>It reduces anxiety and promotes acceptance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the Universal Human Phobia that affects almost everyone?

    <p>Interpersonal human aggression</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the body after a deadly force encounter, when the danger is over?

    <p>The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is activated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS)?

    <p>Stress response and preparation for danger</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of vasoconstriction on the body's blood vessels?

    <p>Constriction of blood vessels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to overcome the phobia of interpersonal human aggression in peace officers?

    <p>To perform duties effectively as a peace officer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for an irrational, overwhelming, uncontrollable fear of a specific object or event?

    <p>Phobia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what pulse rate do individuals typically experience a loss of fine motor control?

    <p>115 bpm</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced auditory exclusion in deadly force situations?

    <p>85%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the narrowing of vision due to increased heart rate and vasoconstriction?

    <p>Tunnel vision</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced automatic pilot in deadly force situations?

    <p>74%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the experience of perceiving actions in slow motion during deadly force situations?

    <p>Slow-motion time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced temporary paralysis in deadly force situations?

    <p>7%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?

    <p>To survive the encounter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the process of tuning out sensory input in extreme stress situations?

    <p>Cortical perception</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can officers reduce the effects of tunnel vision?

    <p>By scanning their surroundings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of drilling and practicing in training for deadly force situations?

    <p>It improves instinctual responses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for interviewing participants of a critical incident again after they have gotten one or more nights of quality sleep?

    <p>To allow them to recall more details of the incident</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced memory loss for parts of the event?

    <p>51%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe the phenomenon of memory loss in high-risk situations?

    <p>Critical incident amnesia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the OODA loop in a deadly force situation?

    <p>To assess the situation and develop a plan of action</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of officers experienced dissociation in a deadly force situation?

    <p>26%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of stress inoculation in a deadly force situation?

    <p>It increases the chances of success</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe the experience of remembering something that did not happen?

    <p>Memory distortion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?

    <p>To neutralize the threat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe the experience of perceiving time as moving quickly in a deadly force situation?

    <p>Fast motion time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason why some officers experience a healthier response to deadly force situations?

    <p>They have prior success under stressful conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason why the decision to use deadly force should be made in advance?

    <p>To avoid hesitation during the situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the ultimate decision-maker in determining whether deadly force is needed in a situation?

    <p>The suspect's actions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical first response of people upon seeing sudden, violent death?

    <p>Relief that it didn't happen to them</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common psychological term for the exhilaration stage experienced by some people after taking the life of another person?

    <p>Survivor euphoria</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the result of failing to rationalize and accept the use of deadly force beforehand?

    <p>PTSD</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key to experiencing a healthier response to deadly force situations?

    <p>Rationalizing and accepting the use of deadly force beforehand</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the paradox of deadly force situations?

    <p>The willingness to take a life reduces the likelihood of having to do so</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary benefit of making the decision to use deadly force in advance?

    <p>Reducing hesitation during the situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the final stage in the process of responding to taking the life of another person?

    <p>Lifelong process of rationalization and nausea</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why do some officers experience guilt and nausea after taking the life of another person?

    <p>Because they are forced to confront the reality of their actions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the result of denying the possibility of engaging in deadly force prior to the event?

    <p>You are more likely to respond in panic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common phrase that loved ones might say to a person who has survived a traumatic experience?

    <p>Thank God it wasn't you</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the author who wrote about the natural phenomenon of dying and the response stages to death?

    <p>Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason why some people might experience anger towards a person who has survived a traumatic experience?

    <p>They are angry at the world that tried to harm their loved one</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the importance of understanding that one's reactions to a traumatic event are normal?

    <p>It helps to prevent feelings of guilt and shame</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the advice given to a person who has experienced a traumatic event and is met with anger from their loved ones?

    <p>Hug them, hold them, and cherish them</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?

    <p>To protect themselves and others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of mentally preparing for the possibility of using deadly force?

    <p>It reduces the likelihood of responding in panic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of failing to prepare for the possibility of using deadly force?

    <p>Denial kills you twice: physically and psychologically</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the importance of understanding that one's loved ones may say 'Thank God it wasn't you' after a traumatic event?

    <p>It helps to understand that their words are a reflection of their own emotions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of tactical breathing?

    <p>To slow down the heart rate and reduce tremble in the hands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the autonomic nervous system responsible for?

    <p>Involuntary actions, such as heartbeat and perspiration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of debriefing sessions in high-stress professions?

    <p>To process and cope with the traumatic experience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the technique of slowing down breathing to control the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended approach to conducting debriefing sessions?

    <p>Not forcing individuals to participate and conducting debriefings with someone they know and trust</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of using tactical breathing?

    <p>It reduces anxiety and promotes calmness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the somatic nervous system responsible for?

    <p>Conscious control of bodily functions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the process of controlling the autonomic nervous system through breathing?

    <p>Autogenic training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to conduct debriefing sessions in the war zone if possible?

    <p>To reduce the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the goal of controlling the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>To reduce anxiety and promote calmness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a debriefing session in high-stress professions?

    <p>To develop valuable operational lessons and help individuals make peace with their memory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you avoid doing when approaching someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident?

    <p>Asking for an account of the incident</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to educate yourself about trauma reactions?

    <p>To understand how to respond appropriately to someone who has experienced trauma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you say to someone who has been involved in a traumatic incident if you are unsure of what to say or do?

    <p>I'm just glad you are okay</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why should you avoid making lighthearted comments or jokes about someone's traumatic experience?

    <p>It may trigger negative emotions in the individual</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary objective of a debriefing session in high-stress professions?

    <p>To develop valuable operational lessons and help individuals make peace with their memory</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to continue treating someone who has experienced trauma with respect and compassion after the incident?

    <p>To maintain a sense of normalcy and support</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you do if someone who has experienced trauma wants to talk about their experience?

    <p>Listen to them without judgment or interruption</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why should you avoid suggesting how someone who has experienced trauma should be feeling?

    <p>It may not be an appropriate response to their situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of providing a structured environment for individuals who have experienced trauma to process their experiences?

    <p>It helps them make sense of their traumatic experience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a peace officer in a deadly force situation?

    <p>To stop the deadly threat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a peace officer do immediately after being shot?

    <p>Get medical support and prevent further harm</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most difficult task a peace officer may face?

    <p>Deciding to use deadly force</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason officers should accept the possibility of using deadly force?

    <p>To protect themselves and others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a peace officer do if they are shot and the suspect is still a threat?

    <p>Try to stop the suspect from shooting again</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct response to a deadly threat according to the text?

    <p>Say to yourself, 'I think I’m going to have to shoot this guy'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should a peace officer decide whether to use deadly force?

    <p>Right now, before the situation arises</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the result of failing to rationalize and accept the use of deadly force beforehand?

    <p>A world of hurt and guilt</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of a peace officer when using deadly force?

    <p>To stop the threat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of resolving the decision to use deadly force in advance?

    <p>It helps to avoid panic and maintain control</p> Signup and view all the answers

    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:
      1. Observe: being aware of surroundings and environment
      2. Orient: gathering and deciphering information to develop a plan
      3. Decide: choosing a plan of action
      4. 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:

      1. Exhilaration (survivor euphoria)
      2. Remorse and nausea
      3. 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:
      1. Observe: being aware of surroundings and environment
      2. Orient: gathering and deciphering information to develop a plan
      3. Decide: choosing a plan of action
      4. 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:

      1. Exhilaration (survivor euphoria)
      2. Remorse and nausea
      3. 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.

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