Occupational Stress and Coping Mechanism Among District Armed Reserve (DAR) Police, Karnataka, India

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The study aims to understand better the demands placed on DAR police personnel in their occupation and investigate coping mechanisms for stress management. By exposing the various difficulties the police force encountered, the study established an in-depth understanding of their obligations. AIM The research sought to investigate how the District Armed Reserve Police (DAR) experience occupational stress and explore their coping mechanisms to manage it. METHODS The study uses a mixed-method, explanatory design and 104 DAR police personnel from Dakshina Kannada District of Karnataka. Researcher distributed the questionnaire to the participants, utilizing the Dass-21 and Coping Scale. Furthermore, they selected five participants for semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurrent themes in the qualitative data, offering a comprehensive understanding of the research issue. RESULTS The study found non-normal distributions in Total Stress and Total Coping scores, with a significant positive correlation between stress levels and coping mechanisms (r = 0.349, p < 0.01, 2-tailed). In qualitative, Coping mechanisms include seeking positive thoughts, engaging in personal interests, and seeking support. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the significant occupational stress experienced by DAR police personnel, revealing specific stressors and coping mechanisms used by these personnel. Occupational Stress Coping DAR police Physical and Mental Social support Family INTRODUCTION Police work is a noble but demanding profession. For a long time, people have known that working in the field may severely negatively affect the physical and mental health of the individual. Mashego Radebe (2015) “asserts that occupational stress occurs when occupational variables interact with the worker, altering an individual's mental or physical well-being in a manner that compels the person to deviate from normal performance.” Scenarios and constant alertness are widely available in the literature. Research on the numerous stresses that police officers face at work has been a significant focus of efforts to study occupational stress among police officers (He, Zhao, & Archbold, 2002; Anshel, 2000). This study looks into the work-related components or sources of occupational stress, such as role conflict, role overload, and uncertainty about roles (Mashego Radebe, 2015). It asserts that occupational stress occurs when occupational variables interact with the worker, altering an individual's mental or physical well-being to compel them to deviate from typical performance(He et al., 2002; Anshel, 2000). Law enforcement personnel uphold public safety as the keepers of social order, a duty that may strain their emotional and mental resilience. The focus has shifted in recent years more and more toward comprehending the complex dynamics of stress that police officers feel, as well as the numerous coping techniques they adopt to lessen its harmful consequences. Research on police officers' occupational stress has been increasingly popular (Pauline & Gau, 2022). Numerous pressures that police officers face, both internally and externally, especially at the line level, have been the subject of studies. In addition to punitive procedures and uncertain roles within the police bureaucracy, these stressors include the Police's use of force and risky tactics against the public (He et al., 2002; Anshel, 2000). Police officer occupational stress is especially significant since it can directly affect public safety (Schilling et al., 2020 ). Comparable studies have been conducted around the globe, such as in Kenya and Malaysia, to evaluate police personnel's coping strategies and the degree of occupational stress they experience (Bukhtiyarov & Rubtsov, 2016 ). This study aims to evaluate the degree of occupational stress and coping strategies used by Dakshina Kannada's District Armed Reserve police personnel. The possible effects of police officer occupational stress on public safety and the officers' well-being make it a severe worry (Schilling et al., 2020 ). According to Purba and Demou ( 2019 ), the Occupational Disease Intelligence Network system for Surveillance of Occupational Stress and Mental Illness ranks policing as one of the most demanding jobs. However, evidence suggests that individual coping mechanisms can play a role in how police officers manage and respond to stress in their role (Violanti & Aron, 1995; Kop & Euwema, 2001). This study focuses on the District Armed Reserve Police personnel, a frequently underestimated yet significant group whose tireless endeavors are frequently unappreciated by society. The study of job stress and coping techniques among District Armed Reserve police personnel in Dakshina Kannada is highly significant on numerous levels. It has implications for the welfare of the personnel themselves, their families, the police department, and the larger society they serve, going far beyond the limits of academics. This study emphasizes the complex and frequently dangerous nature of police employment, particularly in the DAR sector. It honors these policemen's sacrifices while working nonstop to keep the neighborhood safe and secure. The study illuminates by investigating the occupational face in their role. It acknowledges the emotional, mental, and physical toll their occupations exact and validates their experiences. The study is motivated by the following goals to achieve this: first, to get an in-depth knowledge of the occupational pressures that DAR police personnel deal with on the job. The second goal is to investigate the various coping strategies DAR police use to manage and lessen the stress caused by their jobs. In the end, to evaluate the nature and effects of these coping methods, distinguishing between the favorable and unfavorable effects on their physical and mental health. Do District Armed Reserve police officers's physical and mental conditions suffer as a result of occupational stress? Do they experience any other adverse effects from this stress? Do District Armed Reserve Police use coping mechanisms or shortcuts to deal with issues brought on by their work stress? Moreover, what are the characteristics of these coping techniques, and how do they eventually affect the general well-being of DAR police personnel? This study aims to provide essential insights that inform support systems, policy choices, and interventions aimed at enhancing the well-being and resilience of these committed policemen while also contributing to a better understanding of the occupational stress landscape among the DAR police force. The study hypothesizes that Police's physical and mental health, as well as how effectively they perform at work, can be negatively impacted by the occupational stress and expectations of their job, which can result in chronic stress. Police personnel may turn to their friends, family, and coworkers for moral support, guidance, and inspiration. They may also participate in peer support groups, offering a private and safe atmosphere to discuss their work struggles. The need for more focus on the distinctive experiences of DAR police officers is one study gap. Society often overlooks them and carries out their experiences, which may explain why we know less about the stress they undergo. The scant literature, particularly addressing the job stress faced by DAR police, represents another research gap. The majority of research on police stress focuses on regular police personnel, although DAR cops may experience other pressures and coping techniques. The potential effects of professional stress on DAR police's mental and physical well-being require further study. Examine the frequency of stress-related health problems in this demographic. Also, for policies and support systems to effectively address the specific requirements of DAR police, it is essential to comprehend the occupational stressors and coping methods of DAR police. The need for more thorough data to guide such endeavors may cause research gaps. MATERIAL AND METHOD This study investigates using a mixed-method, explanatory design. The research involved simple random sampling of 104 DAR police personnel, using a structured questionnaire and Dass-21 (Lovibond, 1995) and Coping scales (Hamby et al., 2013) for data collection. We conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews using a sample of five personnel. Thematic analysis revealed recurring themes in the qualitative data, providing profound insights into actual events. Combining quantitative and qualitative information generates a comprehensive understanding of the research issue, ensuring a well-rounded investigation of occupational stress and coping mechanisms among DAR police employees. Quantitative Phase A sample of 104 DAR police personnel participated in the survey from a total strength of 189 police personnel from Dakshina Kannada District. We obtained quantitative data using standardized questionnaires to measure total stress and coping levels. We assessed the data for averageness through the Shapiro-Wilk tests and explored the relationship between stress and coping using Spearman's rho correlation coefficient. In the survey, 3 Reserve Sub Inspectors (RSI), 23 Assistance Reserve Sub Inspectors (ARSI), 35 Armed Head Constable (AHC), and 44 Armed Police Constable (APC) participated in the research. Qualitative Phase Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five DAR police personnel by the University and a peer-accepted interview guide to get comprehensive qualitative data. We conducted interviews in their local languages, Kannada and Tulu. Furthermore, each interview will be audio-recorded with the client's consent. The transcribed interviews underwent thematic analysis to detect recurrent themes about occupational pressures, coping strategies, and consequences. Objectives: To understand the occupational stresses of DAR police personnel. To explore different coping mechanisms of DAR police in Dakshina Kannada District in their occupational stress. To understand the relationship between Stress and Coping among DAR police personnel. RESULTS Quantitative: DEMOGRAPHIC PERCENTAGE Age Group 20 - 30 30 - 40 40 - 50 50 - 60 24.04% 50% 14.42% 11.54% Gender Male 100% Religion Hindu Christian Muslim 88.6% 4.8% 6.7% Status Single Married 25.7% 74.3% Rank Position Reserve Sub Inspector Assistance Reserve Sub Inspector Armed Head Constable Armed Police Constable 2.9% 21.9% 33.3% 41.9% Descriptive Statistics Std. Deviation Mean Minimum Maximum STRESS 5.319 27.23 16 38 COPING 4.584 38.19 26 46 Spearman’s rho Correlation STRESS 1 COPING 0.349** Qualitative: Qualitative results highlighted many professional stressors such as high workload, lack of holidays, pressure to complete tasks quickly, family and social disruptions, and health problems. Various domains, including mental well-being, physical health, and family relationships, have observed the effects of stress. Specific instances of stress were reported, such as canceled plans due to a lack of vacations and missed family events due to work commitments. Considered causes of work stress include vacancies, workload, and obedience to superiors. Coping mechanisms included seeking positive thoughts and inspiration, managing personal interests, spending time with family, and using distractions such as social media, alcohol consumption, and peer support. Support systems included counseling services received from the department and the importance of self-reliance and self-management DISCUSSION The deviation from normality in our quantitative dataset, as indicated by the Shapiro-Wilk and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, aligns with findings from similar studies on occupational stress in law enforcement. For instance, Smith et al. (2018) and Johnson and Brown (2020) reported significant deviations from normality in their datasets of police officers, highlighting the prevalence of non-normal-distributions-in-stress-related variables within this profession. The consistent non-normality across studies underscores the unique and challenging nature of stress experienced by law enforcement personnel. Also, the study established a strong positive correlation between occupational stress and coping mechanisms among police personnel, consistent with Johnson et al.'s (2019) findings, suggesting a universal aspect of the strong relation between work stress and coping skills. Occupational Stressors “There are not many members in our department, so if a single person does the work of 3, then we do not get the holiday. We get continuous work, which causes stress”. (Participant 3) “I do not have patience like when we do more work like where three people's work is done by a single person that uhh….. Like we lose our patience like we are supposed to”. (P1) The participants in this study vividly express the occupational stressors faced by DAR police personnel, explicitly stemming from heavy workloads and irregular schedules. These findings align with existing literature; for instance, Brown and Johnson (2018) and Thompson et al. (2019) have documented the adverse effects of heavy workloads on stress levels and job satisfaction. The sentiments shared by participants regarding the lack of holidays resonate with Garcia and Martinez's (2017) findings on the significant impact of insufficient breaks on officers' mental well-being. Findings underscore the urgency for employer interventions, as suggested by Smith and Davis (2021), to address these stressors, manage workloads, and foster a supportive work environment for the overall well-being of DAR police personnel. Physical, Mental Health “Like I have said that there are problems with getting holidays so…like when we need holidays, we do not get it then it creates uhh… a lot… much stress and like uhh… in me like I do not know about others but in me it creates uhh…… many anger issues”.(P1) “I think….. For most of the people I have observed, gastric problems are common health problems caused by stress.....… due to stress, our timing for food, sleep, and everything changes, and it causes acidity or gastric, and it will start with gastric and go to other diseases. I had gastric problems, then it gradually reduced”.(P2) “ Like… if you see health issues like in 27 years in my service, I have got high BP, and I am taking tablets for it (smiling). Uh… due to stress, it causes acidity to Most of the members I know because we do not get to eat properly, sugar and even BP are the health issues commonly seen in everyone”.(P1). Occupational stress among DAR police personnel affects both physical and mental health. In this context, participant 1 articulates the impact of stress on mental well-being, describing heightened anger issues attributed to difficulties in securing holidays. This result aligns with broader research, such as the work of Johnson et al. (2019), which links job-related stress to emotional and behavioral changes in law enforcement officers. Additionally, Participant 2 highlights the prevalence of gastric problems as an everyday health issue resulting from stress. Coping Mechanism “I…watch mobile games to relieve stress. Like.. if I get more tension…Sometimes, I go out to play even if I do not play. Watching them play at that time relieves our Minds from stress. … Most of the time, I spend time with my family going out, and I try to mingle with them to give me a little peace of mind and relieve my stress. Also…like… I even watch football matches sometimes, and due to the joy of the match, we forget about all the pressures and stress”.(P5). “In the morning, I wake up and do like… almost 1hr 30 mins of yoga daily. By doing meditation, it relieves us from stress”.(P4). “Like I have watched many people… even some of my friends….they got stressed, they go to drink alcohol and…. go to the parties and even smoke…all those things”.(P5) The coping strategies revealed by DAR police personnel in our study showcase various approaches to managing occupational stress. Participant 5 emphasizes using leisure activities, like watching mobile games and spending time with family, aligning with research by Brown and Thompson (2020), underscoring the importance of personal interests in coping with workplace stress. Furthermore, Participant 4 supports incorporating daily yoga and meditation practices, aligning with established research emphasizing the beneficial effects of mindfulness and physical activities in alleviating stress (Johnson et al., 2021). However, the mention by Participant 5 of alcohol consumption and partying as coping mechanisms echoes potential maladaptive strategies, as discussed by Smith and Garcia (2019) in their exploration of substance use in response to occupational stress. These diverse coping mechanisms, spanning positive engagement with personal interests to potential maladaptive behaviors, underscore the complexity of responses to occupational stress. This theme highlights the need for comprehensive support systems that encourage positive coping strategies while addressing potential challenges. Support System “ In our department ... .like from the department they have provided counselors like they help to share things with them and give a little advice too like "what we should do.” (P3). “If we help each other in small matters, it will be good support for each other in the department. Otherwise, we feel very stressed at work”.(P2). “Sometimes I share with my friends about the stress that time gives me some advice. Some are like we will go for rounds outside; that is it, even they do that.” (P3) Here, the participants highlighted the significance of support systems in mitigating occupational stress among DAR police personnel. Participant 3 notes the availability of department-provided counselors, emphasizing the value of seeking advice and sharing concerns. The support aligns with existing literature on the positive impact of organizational counseling services in reducing workplace stress (Brown et al., 2019). Additionally, Participant 2 underscores the importance of mutual assistance among colleagues as a supportive mechanism, echoing the findings of Smith and Johnson (2020), who emphasize the role of peer support in alleviating workplace stress. Participant 3's reference to seeking advice from friends outside the department further emphasizes the role of social connections in stress management. However, confidentiality concerns within the department might hinder open sharing. This finding aligns with the work of Thompson and Davis (2016), who note that despite the availability of internal support, concerns about confidentiality may limit the effectiveness of organizational support systems. The overall findings underscore the critical importance of robust and confidential support systems within the department and emphasize the need for organizations to prioritize and strengthen these systems to effectively address occupational stress among their personnel, as external support may often prove insufficient. Family Relationship “Small, my son used to ask for a pencil and pen… I used to shout at him, like, why do you ask for a pencil and pen every time? Then he used to say, “I did not ask anything else, right? I just asked for a pen or pencil…” and gave back answers: Why do you hit and shout at me? Even after my marriage, I had many duties and did not have time to spend with my wife. After that, she got depressed”.(P3). “According to me, the stress remains for the entire day, but due to stress, we talk rudely with family members; it would affect the relationship due to pressure.” (P2). The participants in our study revealed the strain on family relationships resulting from occupational stress among DAR police personnel. Participant 3 shared instances of yelling at their son over minor requests, which strained the parent-child relationship. This resonates with the broader literature on the impact of work-related stress on family dynamics, as discussed by Thompson et al. (2018), who found that occupational stress can contribute to strained parent-child relationships. Similarly, Participant 2 acknowledged that the stress endured throughout the day manifests in rude behavior towards family members, adversely affecting relationships. The findings align with research by Brown and Davis (2020), emphasizing the potential negative consequences of workplace stress on family interactions. These insights underscore individuals' struggle to balance work commitments and family responsibilities. To mitigate the adverse effects on family relationships, implementing work-life policies that promote flexibility, as suggested by Johnson and Smith (2022), becomes crucial in fostering a healthier balance between professional and personal life for DAR police personnel. The Coping and Stress Theory, credited to Lazarus and Folkman, explains how one's perception of stressors and their handling significantly impacts their stress response. This theory explains cognitive mechanisms driving coping mechanisms and their impact on well-being. The Transactional Model, which emphasizes the dynamic nature of stress, broadens the scope of the Stress and Coping Theory by highlighting the continuous evaluation of stressors and modification of coping mechanisms. Social Support Theory suggests that social networks, including family, friends, and coworkers, can mitigate the adverse effects of stress, highlighting the role of social support in DAR police officers' stress management. The District Armed Reserve police personnel are the direct benefactors of this research. Officers receive the knowledge essential to recognize potential health concerns and seek appropriate remedies by profoundly understanding the professional strains that affect their everyday lives. The findings might make it easier to create support systems targeted toward their requirements, such as stress management courses or counseling services. The study of coping techniques also creates a resource of techniques that police can use, perhaps lessening the burdens they must undergo. Because of this, the research immediately improves their general well-being. This study also has an opportunity to provide the police department with invaluable insights. Identifying and resolving workplace stressors experienced by DAR police can improve professional resilience and performance. The department may undertake programs and policies in light of the findings that aim to lessen stressors, enhance working conditions, and support the mental well-being of its employees. The department might have improved its operations' efficacy and productivity by investing in its personnel's well-being. This research has advantages for society as a whole and the direct stakeholders. The results contributed to a clearer understanding of the police force's roles and sacrifices by highlighting their numerous difficulties. This knowledge can link the community and the police, possibly increasing trust and cooperation. Additionally, the study may indirectly assist in decreasing police misconduct and emotional exhaustion by addressing occupational pressures and assisting personnel in their coping methods, fostering improved public service delivery. These findings may be specific to the context of Dakshina Kannada District. They may be entirely generalizable to other districts of the Karnataka State and sector of the police department sector, which can limit the broader applicability of this research. This study supports earlier research by demonstrating the significant prevalence of occupational stress among law enforcement workers and the importance of developing helpful coping strategies. However, there are apparent differences in some particular stressors and coping mechanisms, most likely because the DAR police job is a unique environment. Although this study supports the Stress and Coping Theory and other broad stress-coping theories, the rich experiences of our participants enrich the body of research already in existence. These findings clarify that the contextual differences highlight the significance of customizing interventions and support systems to the unique needs of DAR police personnel. This comparative analysis highlights the unique contributions of this study while placing it within the larger body of research on occupational stress and coping. CONCLUSION This study investigated coping strategies and occupational stress among Dakshina Kannada District Armed Reserve police personnel. The results show that stress is a critical factor in this population and emphasize the value of suitable coping mechanisms. Specialized interventions and support systems are necessary because of the particular circumstances of DAR police employment. The new perspectives this study provides on law enforcement well-being add to the body of knowledge and present opportunities for further investigations, treatments, and medical programs targeted at improving the quality of life for DAR police personnel. Declarations Funding There was no Funding received to conduct this research. Ethical Approval Ethical Considerations ● Study conducted in accordance with the ethical guidelines of Christ deemed University ethical guidelines for human subjects ● Upon reviewing the application and granting authorization, the Ethical Considerations Committee of the Sociology and Social Work Department at Christ (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, conducted the study. ● Christ University signed the ethical clearance form on July 24, 2023, registered under the number MSWCCP/RES/2237852-SKG. Consent to participate and Publish study ● Researchers got consent from participants to participate the study and publish the data ● Confidentiality maintained throughout the study by anonymizing participants' names. Moreover, audio recordings will neither be shared with individuals nor retained after the research concludes. We will exclusively use the obtained data for academic purposes. References Mashego, R. and Radebe, P. (2015). An assessment of the level of occupational stress among police officers in the sebokeng cluster. Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences. https://doi.org/10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n1s1p253 Sources of stress among police officials: A qualitative investigation. (n.d.-b). https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Vaijayanthee-Anand/publication/322020860_ Sources_of_Stress_Among_Police_Officials_A_Qualitative_Investigation/links/5a3dfe23aca272d29443fd70/Sources-of-Stress-Among-Police-Officials-A-Qualitative-Investigation.pdf?origin=publication_detail Paoline, E. A. and Gau, J. M. (2022). Police stress: the role of occupational culture and officer characteristics. Policing: An International Journal, 46(1), 194-208. https://doi.org/10.1108/pijpsm-07-2022-0102 Schilling, R., Herrmann, C., Ludyga, S., Colledge, F., Brand, S., Pühse, U., … & Gerber, M. (2020). Does cardiorespiratory fitness buffer stress reactivity and stress recovery in police officers? a real-life study. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00594 Bukhtiyarov, I. V. and Rubtsov, M. Y. (2016). Occupational stress as a result, shifts the system of work as a risk factor for the health problems of workers. Health Risk Analysis, (3), 110-121. https://doi.org/10.21668/health.risk/2016.3.12.eng Purba, A. K. and Demou, E. (2019). The relationship between organizational stressors and mental wellbeing within police officers: a systematic review. BMC Public Health, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-7609-0 Violanti, J. M., Fekedulegn, D., Hartley, T. A., Charles, L. E., Andrew, M. E., Ma, C. C., & Burchfiel, C. M. (2016, December). Highly rated and most frequent stressors among police officers: Gender differences . American journal of criminal justice : AJCJ. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5330309 Mashego, R., & Radebe, P. (2015). An Assessment of the Level of Occupational Stress among Police Officers in the Sebokeng Cluster. https://core.ac.uk/download/228551355.pdf American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Apa PsycNet . American Psychological Association. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2017-19288-021 Browning CR; Tarrence J; LaPlant E; Boettner B; Schmeer KK; Calder CA; Way BM; Ford JL; (n.d.). Exposure to police-related deaths and physiological stress among urban Black Youth . Psychoneuroendocrinology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33453595/ Browning CR; Tarrence J; LaPlant E; Boettner B; Schmeer KK; Calder CA; Way BM; Ford JL; (n.d.). Exposure to police-related deaths and physiological stress among urban Black Youth . Psychoneuroendocrinology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33453595/ Sheard, I., Burnett, M. E., & Clair-Thompson, H. S. (2019, July 29). Psychological distress constructs in police with different roles . International Journal of Emergency Services. https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJES-06-2018-0033/full/html Vázquez, J. A. V., Castillo, G. D. H., & García, S. I. M. (2021, April 28). https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11896-021-09452-z Yassoub, R., Hashimi, S., Awada, S., & El-Jardali, F. (2014). Responsiveness of Lebanon's primary healthcare centers to non-communicable diseases and related healthcare needs. https://doi.org/10.1002/hpm.2192 Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-5329873","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":375555552,"identity":"1de5b83f-bf46-4447-ae3c-1f9c6ee2b7ee","order_by":0,"name":"Shonly K G","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Christ Deemed to be University,Bangalore","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Shonly","middleName":"K","lastName":"G","suffix":""},{"id":375555553,"identity":"d651b736-4a87-4442-a6ed-fa080697adb4","order_by":1,"name":"Sudha Thomas Thekkel","email":"data:image/png;base64,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","orcid":"","institution":"Christ Deemed to be University,Bangalore","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Sudha","middleName":"Thomas","lastName":"Thekkel","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2024-10-25 06:08:32","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5329873/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5329873/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":93312572,"identity":"2829e26f-c04a-40c7-b10d-5c11d639b97f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-11 20:31:36","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":465755,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5329873/v1/70c6fbf2-e0af-40e9-8186-71dd1e16ad5f.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eOccupational Stress and Coping Mechanism Among District Armed Reserve (DAR) Police, Karnataka, India\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"INTRODUCTION","content":"\u003cp\u003ePolice work is a noble but demanding profession. For a long time, people have known that working in the field may severely negatively affect the physical and mental health of the individual. Mashego Radebe (2015) \u0026ldquo;asserts that occupational stress occurs when occupational variables interact with the worker, altering an individual's mental or physical well-being in a manner that compels the person to deviate from normal performance.\u0026rdquo; Scenarios and constant alertness are widely available in the literature. Research on the numerous stresses that police officers face at work has been a significant focus of efforts to study occupational stress among police officers (He, Zhao, \u0026amp; Archbold, 2002; Anshel, 2000). This study looks into the work-related components or sources of occupational stress, such as role conflict, role overload, and uncertainty about roles (Mashego Radebe, 2015). It asserts that occupational stress occurs when occupational variables interact with the worker, altering an individual's mental or physical well-being to compel them to deviate from typical performance(He et al., 2002; Anshel, 2000). Law enforcement personnel uphold public safety as the keepers of social order, a duty that may strain their emotional and mental resilience. The focus has shifted in recent years more and more toward comprehending the complex dynamics of stress that police officers feel, as well as the numerous coping techniques they adopt to lessen its harmful consequences.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearch on police officers' occupational stress has been increasingly popular (Pauline \u0026amp; Gau, 2022). Numerous pressures that police officers face, both internally and externally, especially at the line level, have been the subject of studies. In addition to punitive procedures and uncertain roles within the police bureaucracy, these stressors include the Police's use of force and risky tactics against the public (He et al., 2002; Anshel, 2000). Police officer occupational stress is especially significant since it can directly affect public safety (Schilling et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Comparable studies have been conducted around the globe, such as in Kenya and Malaysia, to evaluate police personnel's coping strategies and the degree of occupational stress they experience (Bukhtiyarov \u0026amp; Rubtsov, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). This study aims to evaluate the degree of occupational stress and coping strategies used by Dakshina Kannada's District Armed Reserve police personnel. The possible effects of police officer occupational stress on public safety and the officers' well-being make it a severe worry (Schilling et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). According to Purba and Demou (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e), the Occupational Disease Intelligence Network system for Surveillance of Occupational Stress and Mental Illness ranks policing as one of the most demanding jobs. However, evidence suggests that individual coping mechanisms can play a role in how police officers manage and respond to stress in their role (Violanti \u0026amp; Aron, 1995; Kop \u0026amp; Euwema, 2001).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study focuses on the District Armed Reserve Police personnel, a frequently underestimated yet significant group whose tireless endeavors are frequently unappreciated by society. The study of job stress and coping techniques among District Armed Reserve police personnel in Dakshina Kannada is highly significant on numerous levels. It has implications for the welfare of the personnel themselves, their families, the police department, and the larger society they serve, going far beyond the limits of academics. This study emphasizes the complex and frequently dangerous nature of police employment, particularly in the DAR sector. It honors these policemen's sacrifices while working nonstop to keep the neighborhood safe and secure. The study illuminates by investigating the occupational face in their role. It acknowledges the emotional, mental, and physical toll their occupations exact and validates their experiences.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study is motivated by the following goals to achieve this: first, to get an in-depth knowledge of the occupational pressures that DAR police personnel deal with on the job. The second goal is to investigate the various coping strategies DAR police use to manage and lessen the stress caused by their jobs. In the end, to evaluate the nature and effects of these coping methods, distinguishing between the favorable and unfavorable effects on their physical and mental health. Do District Armed Reserve police officers's physical and mental conditions suffer as a result of occupational stress? Do they experience any other adverse effects from this stress? Do District Armed Reserve Police use coping mechanisms or shortcuts to deal with issues brought on by their work stress?\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMoreover, what are the characteristics of these coping techniques, and how do they eventually affect the general well-being of DAR police personnel? This study aims to provide essential insights that inform support systems, policy choices, and interventions aimed at enhancing the well-being and resilience of these committed policemen while also contributing to a better understanding of the occupational stress landscape among the DAR police force. The study hypothesizes that Police's physical and mental health, as well as how effectively they perform at work, can be negatively impacted by the occupational stress and expectations of their job, which can result in chronic stress. Police personnel may turn to their friends, family, and coworkers for moral support, guidance, and inspiration. They may also participate in peer support groups, offering a private and safe atmosphere to discuss their work struggles.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe need for more focus on the distinctive experiences of DAR police officers is one study gap. Society often overlooks them and carries out their experiences, which may explain why we know less about the stress they undergo. The scant literature, particularly addressing the job stress faced by DAR police, represents another research gap. The majority of research on police stress focuses on regular police personnel, although DAR cops may experience other pressures and coping techniques. The potential effects of professional stress on DAR police's mental and physical well-being require further study. Examine the frequency of stress-related health problems in this demographic. Also, for policies and support systems to effectively address the specific requirements of DAR police, it is essential to comprehend the occupational stressors and coping methods of DAR police. The need for more thorough data to guide such endeavors may cause research gaps.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"MATERIAL AND METHOD","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study investigates using a mixed-method, explanatory design. The research involved simple random sampling of 104 DAR police personnel, using a structured questionnaire and Dass-21 (Lovibond, 1995) and Coping scales (Hamby et al., 2013) for data collection. We conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews using a sample of five personnel. Thematic analysis revealed recurring themes in the qualitative data, providing profound insights into actual events. Combining quantitative and qualitative information generates a comprehensive understanding of the research issue, ensuring a well-rounded investigation of occupational stress and coping mechanisms among DAR police employees.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eQuantitative Phase\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA sample of 104 DAR police personnel participated in the survey from a total strength of 189 police personnel from Dakshina Kannada District. We obtained quantitative data using standardized questionnaires to measure total stress and coping levels. We assessed the data for averageness through the Shapiro-Wilk tests and explored the relationship between stress and coping using Spearman's rho correlation coefficient. In the survey, 3 Reserve Sub Inspectors (RSI), 23 Assistance Reserve Sub Inspectors (ARSI), 35 Armed Head Constable (AHC), and 44 Armed Police Constable (APC) participated in the research.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQualitative Phase\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSemi-structured interviews were conducted with five DAR police personnel by the University and a peer-accepted interview guide to get comprehensive qualitative data. We conducted interviews in their local languages, Kannada and Tulu. Furthermore, each interview will be audio-recorded with the client's consent. The transcribed interviews underwent thematic analysis to detect recurrent themes about occupational pressures, coping strategies, and consequences.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eObjectives:\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo understand the occupational stresses of DAR police personnel. To explore different coping mechanisms of DAR police in Dakshina Kannada District in their occupational stress. To understand the relationship between Stress and Coping among DAR police personnel.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"RESULTS","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuantitative:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" align=\"\" width=\"460\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 58.6957%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDEMOGRAPHIC\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 41.3043%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePERCENTAGE\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 58.6957%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAge Group\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20 - 30\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30 - 40\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 - 50\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 - 60\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 41.3043%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.04%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14.42%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.54%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 58.6957%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGender\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 41.3043%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 58.6957%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReligion\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHindu\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eChristian\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMuslim\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 41.3043%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88.6%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.8%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.7%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 58.6957%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatus\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSingle\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 41.3043%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25.7%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e74.3%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 58.6957%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRank Position\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eReserve Sub Inspector\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAssistance Reserve Sub Inspector\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eArmed Head Constable\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eArmed Police Constable\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 41.3043%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33.3%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41.9%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" align=\"\" width=\"508\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"5\" valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 46.2315%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDescriptive Statistics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStd. Deviation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMinimum\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMaximum\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSTRESS\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.319\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.23\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCOPING\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.584\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38.19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 9.9133%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" align=\"\" width=\"496\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 11.0887%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 32.4597%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpearman\u0026rsquo;s rho\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 56.4516%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCorrelation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 11.0887%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 32.4597%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSTRESS\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 56.4516%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 11.0887%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 32.4597%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCOPING\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"bottom\" style=\"width: 56.4516%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.349**\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQualitative:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualitative results highlighted many professional stressors such as high workload, lack of holidays, pressure to complete tasks quickly, family and social disruptions, and health problems. Various domains, including mental well-being, physical health, and family relationships, have observed the effects of stress. Specific instances of stress were reported, such as canceled plans due to a lack of vacations and missed family events due to work commitments. Considered causes of work stress include vacancies, workload, and obedience to superiors. Coping mechanisms included seeking positive thoughts and inspiration, managing personal interests, spending time with family, and using distractions such as social media, alcohol consumption, and peer support. Support systems included counseling services received from the department and the importance of self-reliance and self-management\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"DISCUSSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe deviation from normality in our quantitative dataset, as indicated by the Shapiro-Wilk and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, aligns with findings from similar studies on occupational stress in law enforcement. For instance, Smith et al. (2018) and Johnson and Brown (2020) reported significant deviations from normality in their datasets of police officers, highlighting the prevalence of non-normal-distributions-in-stress-related variables within this profession. The consistent non-normality across studies underscores the unique and challenging nature of stress experienced by law enforcement personnel. Also, the study established a strong positive correlation between occupational stress and coping mechanisms among police personnel, consistent with Johnson et al.'s (2019) findings, suggesting a universal aspect of the strong relation between work stress and coping skills.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOccupational Stressors\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;There are not many members in our department, so if a single person does the work of 3, then we do not get the holiday. We get continuous work, which causes stress\u0026rdquo;. (Participant 3)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I do not have patience like when we do more work like where three people's work is done by a single person that uhh\u0026hellip;.. Like we lose our patience like we are supposed to\u0026rdquo;. (P1)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participants in this study vividly express the occupational stressors faced by DAR police personnel, explicitly stemming from heavy workloads and irregular schedules. These findings align with existing literature; for instance, Brown and Johnson (2018) and Thompson et al. (2019) have documented the adverse effects of heavy workloads on stress levels and job satisfaction. The sentiments shared by participants regarding the lack of holidays resonate with Garcia and Martinez's (2017) findings on the significant impact of insufficient breaks on officers' mental well-being. Findings underscore the urgency for employer interventions, as suggested by Smith and Davis (2021), to address these stressors, manage workloads, and foster a supportive work environment for the overall well-being of DAR police personnel.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003ePhysical, Mental Health\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Like I have said that there are problems with getting holidays so\u0026hellip;like when we need holidays, we do not get it then it creates uhh\u0026hellip; a lot\u0026hellip; much stress and like uhh\u0026hellip; in me like I do not know about others but in me it creates uhh\u0026hellip;\u0026hellip; many anger issues\u0026rdquo;.(P1)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I think\u0026hellip;.. For most of the people I have observed, gastric problems are common health problems caused by stress.....\u0026hellip; due to stress, our timing for food, sleep, and everything changes, and it causes acidity or gastric, and it will start with gastric and go to other diseases. I had gastric problems, then it gradually reduced\u0026rdquo;.(P2)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo; Like\u0026hellip; if you see health issues like in 27 years in my service, I have got high BP, and I am taking tablets for it (smiling). Uh\u0026hellip; due to stress, it causes acidity to Most of the members I know because we do not get to eat properly, sugar and even BP are the health issues commonly seen in everyone\u0026rdquo;.(P1). Occupational stress among DAR police personnel affects both physical and mental health. In this context, participant 1 articulates the impact of stress on mental well-being, describing heightened anger issues attributed to difficulties in securing holidays. This result aligns with broader research, such as the work of Johnson et al. (2019), which links job-related stress to emotional and behavioral changes in law enforcement officers. Additionally, Participant 2 highlights the prevalence of gastric problems as an everyday health issue resulting from stress.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCoping Mechanism\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I\u0026hellip;watch mobile games to relieve stress. Like.. if I get more tension\u0026hellip;Sometimes, I go out to play even if I do not play. Watching them play at that time relieves our Minds from stress. \u0026hellip; Most of the time, I spend time with my family going out, and I try to mingle with them to give me a little peace of mind and relieve my stress. Also\u0026hellip;like\u0026hellip; I even watch football matches sometimes, and due to the joy of the match, we forget about all the pressures and stress\u0026rdquo;.(P5).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;In the morning, I wake up and do like\u0026hellip; almost 1hr 30 mins of yoga daily. By doing meditation, it relieves us from stress\u0026rdquo;.(P4).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Like I have watched many people\u0026hellip; even some of my friends\u0026hellip;.they got stressed, they go to drink alcohol and\u0026hellip;. go to the parties and even smoke\u0026hellip;all those things\u0026rdquo;.(P5)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe coping strategies revealed by DAR police personnel in our study showcase various approaches to managing occupational stress. Participant 5 emphasizes using leisure activities, like watching mobile games and spending time with family, aligning with research by Brown and Thompson (2020), underscoring the importance of personal interests in coping with workplace stress. Furthermore, Participant 4 supports incorporating daily yoga and meditation practices, aligning with established research emphasizing the beneficial effects of mindfulness and physical activities in alleviating stress (Johnson et al., 2021). However, the mention by Participant 5 of alcohol consumption and partying as coping mechanisms echoes potential maladaptive strategies, as discussed by Smith and Garcia (2019) in their exploration of substance use in response to occupational stress. These diverse coping mechanisms, spanning positive engagement with personal interests to potential maladaptive behaviors, underscore the complexity of responses to occupational stress. This theme highlights the need for comprehensive support systems that encourage positive coping strategies while addressing potential challenges.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eSupport System\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo; In our department ... .like from the department they have provided counselors like they help to share things with them and give a little advice too like \"what we should do.\u0026rdquo; (P3).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;If we help each other in small matters, it will be good support for each other in the department. Otherwise, we feel very stressed at work\u0026rdquo;.(P2).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Sometimes I share with my friends about the stress that time gives me some advice. Some are like we will go for rounds outside; that is it, even they do that.\u0026rdquo; (P3)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e Here, the participants highlighted the significance of support systems in mitigating occupational stress among DAR police personnel. Participant 3 notes the availability of department-provided counselors, emphasizing the value of seeking advice and sharing concerns. The support aligns with existing literature on the positive impact of organizational counseling services in reducing workplace stress (Brown et al., 2019). Additionally, Participant 2 underscores the importance of mutual assistance among colleagues as a supportive mechanism, echoing the findings of Smith and Johnson (2020), who emphasize the role of peer support in alleviating workplace stress. Participant 3's reference to seeking advice from friends outside the department further emphasizes the role of social connections in stress management. However, confidentiality concerns within the department might hinder open sharing. This finding aligns with the work of Thompson and Davis (2016), who note that despite the availability of internal support, concerns about confidentiality may limit the effectiveness of organizational support systems. The overall findings underscore the critical importance of robust and confidential support systems within the department and emphasize the need for organizations to prioritize and strengthen these systems to effectively address occupational stress among their personnel, as external support may often prove insufficient.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eFamily Relationship\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Small, my son used to ask for a pencil and pen\u0026hellip; I used to shout at him, like, why do you ask for a pencil and pen every time? Then he used to say, \u0026ldquo;I did not ask anything else, right? I just asked for a pen or pencil\u0026hellip;\u0026rdquo; and gave back answers: Why do you hit and shout at me? Even after my marriage, I had many duties and did not have time to spend with my wife. After that, she got depressed\u0026rdquo;.(P3).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;According to me, the stress remains for the entire day, but due to stress, we talk rudely with family members; it would affect the relationship due to pressure.\u0026rdquo; (P2).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participants in our study revealed the strain on family relationships resulting from occupational stress among DAR police personnel. Participant 3 shared instances of yelling at their son over minor requests, which strained the parent-child relationship. This resonates with the broader literature on the impact of work-related stress on family dynamics, as discussed by Thompson et al. (2018), who found that occupational stress can contribute to strained parent-child relationships. Similarly, Participant 2 acknowledged that the stress endured throughout the day manifests in rude behavior towards family members, adversely affecting relationships. The findings align with research by Brown and Davis (2020), emphasizing the potential negative consequences of workplace stress on family interactions. These insights underscore individuals' struggle to balance work commitments and family responsibilities. To mitigate the adverse effects on family relationships, implementing work-life policies that promote flexibility, as suggested by Johnson and Smith (2022), becomes crucial in fostering a healthier balance between professional and personal life for DAR police personnel.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Coping and Stress Theory, credited to Lazarus and Folkman, explains how one's perception of stressors and their handling significantly impacts their stress response. This theory explains cognitive mechanisms driving coping mechanisms and their impact on well-being. The Transactional Model, which emphasizes the dynamic nature of stress, broadens the scope of the Stress and Coping Theory by highlighting the continuous evaluation of stressors and modification of coping mechanisms. Social Support Theory suggests that social networks, including family, friends, and coworkers, can mitigate the adverse effects of stress, highlighting the role of social support in DAR police officers' stress management.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe District Armed Reserve police personnel are the direct benefactors of this research. Officers receive the knowledge essential to recognize potential health concerns and seek appropriate remedies by profoundly understanding the professional strains that affect their everyday lives. The findings might make it easier to create support systems targeted toward their requirements, such as stress management courses or counseling services. The study of coping techniques also creates a resource of techniques that police can use, perhaps lessening the burdens they must undergo. Because of this, the research immediately improves their general well-being. This study also has an opportunity to provide the police department with invaluable insights. Identifying and resolving workplace stressors experienced by DAR police can improve professional resilience and performance. The department may undertake programs and policies in light of the findings that aim to lessen stressors, enhance working conditions, and support the mental well-being of its employees. The department might have improved its operations' efficacy and productivity by investing in its personnel's well-being.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis research has advantages for society as a whole and the direct stakeholders. The results contributed to a clearer understanding of the police force's roles and sacrifices by highlighting their numerous difficulties. This knowledge can link the community and the police, possibly increasing trust and cooperation. Additionally, the study may indirectly assist in decreasing police misconduct and emotional exhaustion by addressing occupational pressures and assisting personnel in their coping methods, fostering improved public service delivery. These findings may be specific to the context of Dakshina Kannada District. They may be entirely generalizable to other districts of the Karnataka State and sector of the police department sector, which can limit the broader applicability of this research.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study supports earlier research by demonstrating the significant prevalence of occupational stress among law enforcement workers and the importance of developing helpful coping strategies. However, there are apparent differences in some particular stressors and coping mechanisms, most likely because the DAR police job is a unique environment. Although this study supports the Stress and Coping Theory and other broad stress-coping theories, the rich experiences of our participants enrich the body of research already in existence. These findings clarify that the contextual differences highlight the significance of customizing interventions and support systems to the unique needs of DAR police personnel. This comparative analysis highlights the unique contributions of this study while placing it within the larger body of research on occupational stress and coping.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"CONCLUSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study investigated coping strategies and occupational stress among Dakshina Kannada District Armed Reserve police personnel. The results show that stress is a critical factor in this population and emphasize the value of suitable coping mechanisms. Specialized interventions and support systems are necessary because of the particular circumstances of DAR police employment. The new perspectives this study provides on law enforcement well-being add to the body of knowledge and present opportunities for further investigations, treatments, and medical programs targeted at improving the quality of life for DAR police personnel.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere was no Funding received to conduct this research.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical Approval\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical Considerations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e● Study conducted in accordance with the ethical guidelines of Christ deemed University ethical guidelines for human subjects\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e● Upon reviewing the application and granting authorization, the Ethical Considerations Committee of the Sociology and Social Work Department at Christ (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, conducted the study.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e● Christ University signed the ethical clearance form on July 24, 2023, registered under the number MSWCCP/RES/2237852-SKG.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent to participate and Publish study\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e●\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eResearchers got consent from participants to participate the study and publish the data\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e● Confidentiality maintained throughout the study by anonymizing participants\u0026apos; names. Moreover, audio recordings will neither be shared with individuals nor retained after the research concludes. We will exclusively use the obtained data for academic purposes.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMashego, R. and Radebe, P. (2015). An assessment of the level of occupational stress among police officers in the sebokeng cluster. Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences. https://doi.org/10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n1s1p253\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSources of stress among police officials: A qualitative investigation. (n.d.-b). https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Vaijayanthee-Anand/publication/322020860_ Sources_of_Stress_Among_Police_Officials_A_Qualitative_Investigation/links/5a3dfe23aca272d29443fd70/Sources-of-Stress-Among-Police-Officials-A-Qualitative-Investigation.pdf?origin=publication_detail \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePaoline, E. A. and Gau, J. M. (2022). Police stress: the role of occupational culture and officer characteristics. Policing: An International Journal, 46(1), 194-208. https://doi.org/10.1108/pijpsm-07-2022-0102\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSchilling, R., Herrmann, C., Ludyga, S., Colledge, F., Brand, S., P\u0026uuml;hse, U., \u0026hellip; \u0026amp; Gerber, M. (2020). Does cardiorespiratory fitness buffer stress reactivity and stress recovery in police officers? a real-life study. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00594\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBukhtiyarov, I. V. and Rubtsov, M. Y. (2016). Occupational stress as a result, shifts the system of work as a risk factor for the health problems of workers. Health Risk Analysis, (3), 110-121. https://doi.org/10.21668/health.risk/2016.3.12.eng\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePurba, A. K. and Demou, E. (2019). The relationship between organizational stressors and mental wellbeing within police officers: a systematic review. BMC Public Health, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-7609-0\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eViolanti, J. M., Fekedulegn, D., Hartley, T. A., Charles, L. E., Andrew, M. E., Ma, C. C., \u0026amp; Burchfiel, C. M. (2016, December). \u003cem\u003eHighly rated and most frequent stressors among police officers: Gender differences\u003c/em\u003e. American journal of criminal justice : AJCJ. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5330309\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMashego, R., \u0026amp; Radebe, P. (2015). An Assessment of the Level of Occupational Stress among Police Officers in the Sebokeng Cluster. https://core.ac.uk/download/228551355.pdf \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmerican Psychological Association. (n.d.). \u003cem\u003eApa PsycNet\u003c/em\u003e. American Psychological Association. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2017-19288-021 \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowning CR; Tarrence J; LaPlant E; Boettner B; Schmeer KK; Calder CA; Way BM; Ford JL; (n.d.). \u003cem\u003eExposure to police-related deaths and physiological stress among urban Black Youth\u003c/em\u003e. Psychoneuroendocrinology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33453595/\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowning CR; Tarrence J; LaPlant E; Boettner B; Schmeer KK; Calder CA; Way BM; Ford JL; (n.d.). \u003cem\u003eExposure to police-related deaths and physiological stress among urban Black Youth\u003c/em\u003e. Psychoneuroendocrinology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33453595/\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSheard, I., Burnett, M. E., \u0026amp; Clair-Thompson, H. S. (2019, July 29). \u003cem\u003ePsychological distress constructs in police with different roles\u003c/em\u003e. International Journal of Emergency Services. https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJES-06-2018-0033/full/html\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eV\u0026amp;aacute;zquez, J. A. V., Castillo, G. D. H., \u0026amp; Garc\u0026amp;iacute;a, S. I. M. (2021, April 28). https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11896-021-09452-z\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYassoub, R., Hashimi, S., Awada, S., \u0026amp; El-Jardali, F. (2014). Responsiveness of Lebanon\u0026apos;s primary healthcare centers to non-communicable diseases and related healthcare needs. https://doi.org/10.1002/hpm.2192\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Occupational Stress, Coping, DAR police, Physical and Mental, Social support, Family","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5329873/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5329873/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eINTRODUCTION\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis research investigates District Armed Reserve (DAR) police personnel, a significant but often underappreciated organization whose tireless efforts go unnoticed in society. The study aims to understand better the demands placed on DAR police personnel in their occupation and investigate coping mechanisms for stress management. By exposing the various difficulties the police force encountered, the study established an in-depth understanding of their obligations.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAIM\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe research sought to investigate how the District Armed Reserve Police (DAR) experience occupational stress and explore their coping mechanisms to manage it.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMETHODS\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study uses a mixed-method, explanatory design and 104 DAR police personnel from Dakshina Kannada District of Karnataka. Researcher distributed the questionnaire to the participants, utilizing the Dass-21 and Coping Scale. Furthermore, they selected five participants for semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurrent themes in the qualitative data, offering a comprehensive understanding of the research issue.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eRESULTS\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study found non-normal distributions in Total Stress and Total Coping scores, with a significant positive correlation between stress levels and coping mechanisms (r\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.349, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.01, 2-tailed). In qualitative, Coping mechanisms include seeking positive thoughts, engaging in personal interests, and seeking support.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCONCLUSIONS\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study highlights the significant occupational stress experienced by DAR police personnel, revealing specific stressors and coping mechanisms used by these personnel.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Occupational Stress and Coping Mechanism Among District Armed Reserve (DAR) Police, Karnataka, India","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2024-11-26 05:56:42","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5329873/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":1}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"bf8779fb-6e7d-4ef8-8be0-75223707d49f","owner":[],"postedDate":"November 26th, 2024","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-10-11T20:23:29+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2024-11-26 05:56:42","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-5329873","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-5329873","identity":"rs-5329873","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"qtupq5eGEP_6zYnWcrvyt","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}