Evaluating Predictors and Outcomes of Emotional Exhaustion and Depersonalization for Women Officers

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the predictors and consequences of two dimensions of burnout, emotional exhaustion, and depersonalization, among 1,531 women officers serving in 83 law enforcement agencies. Studying burnout is vital to building support systems that can help women thrive in law enforcement. The findings show that a substantial number of women officers experience exhaustion and depersonalization and that reducing job demands, discrimination, and tokenism are critically important to reducing burnout. The results also highlight the potentially detrimental consequences of burnout, particularly depersonalization, on attitudes about misconduct and physical force, as well as commitment to the organization. We conclude by discussing how organizations can reduce burnout among women officers by changing policies and practices to place a concern for diversity and equality for women at the center of police culture.