Psychological Fitness-For-Duty Examinations : Practical Considerations for Public Safety Departments

Police officers with known or suspected psychological or behavioral problems often present complex issues for administrators. For example, an officer who was once a productive and respected member of a department now shows a distinct change in behavior or attitude that is confusing, frightening, or irritating to his or her supervisors and coworkers. Such an officer can have a profound effect on public safety as well as organizational effectiveness, productivity, and morale. Once a problem officer has been identified, a public safety department must exercise due diligence in order to protect itself from liability for the officer’s actions, as well as to protect the officer, the public and other officers from potential harm. In addition, the department often has deep personal concern for the officer and wants to save his or her career if at all possible.