What is a common source of external stress for police officers?

Frustration with the judicial system is a common source of external stress for police officers because it directly impacts their daily operations and effectiveness. Officers may feel that their efforts in apprehending criminals and gathering evidence are undermined by factors such as lenient sentencing, perceived lack of accountability for offenders, or slow judicial processes. These experiences can lead to a sense of helplessness and frustration as they witness repeat offenders or ineffective legal outcomes, which in turn can affect their morale and job satisfaction.

In contrast, public support for law enforcement typically serves as a source of encouragement and motivation rather than stress. Recognition for good performance enhances morale and job satisfaction, providing positive reinforcement for the officers' hard work. Consistent disciplinary actions can be a source of stress, but they often arise from an officer's own actions or decisions, rather than as an external factor. Hence, while there may be instances of stress related to discipline, the frustration with the judicial system remains a more pervasive and systemic source of external pressure on police officers.