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Cognitive Model of Firearms Policing

NCJ Number
216517
Journal
Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology Volume: 21 Issue: 2 Dated: Fall 2006 Pages: 25-36
Author(s)
Emma L. Kavanagh
Date Published
2006
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the role of mental factors in the training and performance of members of police firearms teams, which are responsible for dealing with high-risk, often life-threatening confrontations with dangerous individuals.
Abstract
The author draws on research findings from sports psychology, neurophysiology, and social psychology in the development of a cognitive (mindset) model of firearms policing. The basic physiology of the stress response is the starting point. Also examined are the various cognitive factors likely to be present in firearms confrontations, the manner in which the stress response interacts with these processes, and the difficulties this can present to the firearms officer. Suggestions are offered on the ways this knowledge can be used to improve the operational effectiveness of the firearms officer. One of the cognitive factors identified and discussed in relation to threatening confrontations is the "downshift to automaticity." This refers to the tendency for rational and creative thinking to shut down under stress and when facing danger, while resorting to earlier learned responses that are ineffective in the current situation. This tendency toward "automaticity" under stress can be diminished or eliminated by repetitive conditioning in responding to simulated threat scenarios. Another cognitive factor discussed is preparation for rapid decisions and quick reactions that do not require time for information processing and the weighing of alternative decisions. This requires providing officers with varied and repetitive training scenarios in which they develop habits of quick decisionmaking and response that are appropriate for various circumstances likely to be encountered. Other cognitive factors that must be addressed in training for firearm teams are methods for countering the tendency for an officer's attention to focus on the attacker's weapon while failing to address other risk factors pertinent to officer safety. 50 references