Public Safety Trauma Response Study

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

2004-2008

Police work involves many stressors and traumas. This study, funded by the Department of Homeland Security, examined the two peer support programs available to New York City Police Department officers: Early Intervention Unit (EIU), an internal program, and Police Organization Providing Peer Assistance (POPPA), an external program. 

Specifically, the study examined police utilization of the peer programs and police management of cumulative day-to-day work stress and traumatic stress. Study results revealed that both programs are promising modes of recovery and resiliency. EIU provides an important structure for addressing police officers' needs in the workplace. POPPA provides an important safety net for police officers who might otherwise not seek help in the workplace. The two programs provide models for replication nationally and internationally for police officers and other first responders.