Physiological and Psychological Consequences of Job Stress on The Nigeria Police Officers in Rivers State: Implications for Counselling

Abstract

Background: Job stress is a major occupational challenge among police officers because of demanding duties, rotating shifts, supervisory pressures, and exposure to stressful work conditions. Such stress may adversely affect officers’ physical and psychological well-being and their effectiveness at work. Objective: This study examined the physiological and psychological consequences of job stress among Nigeria Police officers in Rivers State and the implications for counselling. Method: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population comprised 14,920 police officers across the 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers State. A sample of 400 officers was selected using simple and systematic random sampling. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire and analysed using mean and standard deviation. Results: Respondents accepted the identified physiological consequences of job stress, with a grand mean of 3.14. Communication problems with supervisors recorded the highest mean (3.49), followed by sleeping on duty due to rotating shifts (3.43) and tension (3.35). Psychological consequences were also accepted, with a grand mean of 3.29. General anxiety recorded the highest mean (3.42), while job dissatisfaction recorded the lowest (2.93). Conclusion: Job stress is associated with notable physiological and psychological challenges among police officers in Rivers State. Unique Contribution: The study highlights the need to address both physical and psychological consequences of police occupational stress through counselling interventions. Key Recommendation: The study recommends strengthened workplace counselling services, stress-management training, psychological support, and regular wellness assessments to promote officers’ well-being and effectiveness.

Keywords

References