Read the scenario and then write a 2-3 page answer to the question. You may also have to do limited research.
You and your partner respond to a tough call on the beat. It’s a car crash on a busy road, and you race to get there. When you finally make it through all the traffic, a child clings to life – and dies in your arms. You and your partner are very different people, with different backgrounds and different lifestyles. She is more rational and holds in her emotions. You tend to show your emotions in public. She has been an officer for just a year, while you are a 10-year veteran.
Question: Which one of you will more likely develop posttraumatic stress disorder after this rough crash? Why? Comment on risk and resiliency factors in this situation. What symptoms (behaviors) will you see in the afflicted officer (your partner or yourself)? What are treatment strategies?
