This paper takes a look at the emotional, psychological and physical
problems many police officers experience after leaving
the police force. These
problems, often referred to as the "ex-cop
syndrome", can be many and varied including alcoholism, higher incidences of heart attack, higher divorce rates, depression and addiction to prescription drugs. The paper also examines the police force culture that contributes to the behavior exhibited by ex-officers suffering from ex-cop syndrome. Outline Introduction Factors in the Development of Police Officer Identity Some Reasons Why Police Officers are Different to Civilians Marriage and Family Problems Specific to Police Officers The Effects of Stress Police Suicide The Effects of Shift Work Conclusion