Publisher's Synopsis
Law enforcement (more prevalent than before) is forced (required) to approach, deal with, detain and subsequently incarcerate, secure, and oversees many mentally challenged (ill) individuals in our communities. In our society, civilization and culture, it is well documented that, 1 out 4 are afflicted with some form of mental illness (According to "Mental Illness," 2005-2013). The job dictates (and necessitates) for all types of emotional roller coaster rides an officer can or will experience. Based on this idea, theory and notion; some will be rewarding; however, some not so rewarding. Officers trained in the mindset of stop, freeze, and do not move, do so, devoid of any other option left to the accused perpetrator. Often moving towards the idiom or phrase, "Do as I say or else." With all the dangers constant and present in the world, the authors can definitely fathom and comprehend how the mindset of the officer and delivering a monologue vs. a dialog takes place and transpires. However, at times, this tactic and approach can and in most cases, will, easily escalate a minute situation quickly out of control. The authors perspective examines how officer training affects the way the mentally ill are categorized as the same as others consider a "normal reasoning individual." Similar to asking a child, "What does a monster look like?" And, the child points out dark, disfigured, unattractive photos; clearly missing the point- "Anyone can be a monster." Based on this idea, theory and notion, police officers have constructed the same concept of intellectual disorder (mentally ill), missing the main point- mental illness appears like "a normal looking person." Due to some officer's inability to properly access situations upon contact, the approach may lack consideration to the illness, the mindset, and the person. We suggest and propose the concept that, officer training must (very essential) embrace and consist of an expanded training in psychology. We propose to refer to the training as, "Psychology 101 for Law Enforcement Officers."
