NCJ Number
132200
Journal
Prosecutor Volume: 24 Issue: 4 Dated: (Spring 1991) Pages: 27-32
Date Published
1991
Length
6 pages
Annotation
A deadly-force scenario is included in this discussion designed to provide the prosecutor with an understanding of the physical and psychological ramifications of a violent confrontation, to give the prosecutor's investigator guidance about how to proceed in investigating such an incident, and to provide the prosecutor with some insights into the training of law enforcement officers and the relevance and appropriateness of current training programs.
Abstract
To some extent, good training can minimize certain aspects of the profound and unavoidable changes that take place in the human body and brain that will occur in nearly every officer under severe stress. The components of the effect can include: increased heart rate and blood pressure, rapid breathing, activation of the adrenal glands, increased production of insulin by the pancreas, vasoconstriction in the extremities, dilation of the pupils, rapid eye movement, dryness of the mouth, general muscle tightening, increased strength, elevation of the pain threshold, deterioration of fine motor coordination, mental confusion, tunnel vision, auditory exclusion, time-space distortion, denial response, temporary blindness, bias, and loghorrhea. Practical suggestions for law enforcement training are outlined. 10 references