PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS AND DEVIANT BEHAVIOR AMONG POLICE OFFICERS IN BENIN CITY

This study investigated the relationship between psychological stress and deviant behavior among police officers in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the effects of job demands, burnout, and frustration on deviant behavior within the police force. The research employs a descriptive survey design, using both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data from 357 police officers through a structured questionnaire. The findings indicate that job demands, burnout, and frustration significantly contribute to the likelihood of deviant behavior among officers. High workloads, excessive time pressures, and emotional exhaustion due to burnout were found to compromise the officers' ability to adhere to ethical standards and effectively perform their duties. Frustration, stemming from unmet expectations and lack of support, further exacerbates the tendency towards deviant actions such as corruption and excessive force. The study recommends addressing these stressors by redistributing workloads, providing psychological support, and creating a more supportive work environment. It also suggests further research into the organizational culture of police departments and longitudinal studies to better understand the long-term effects of these stressors on police officers.