Work burnout and community policing among junior-ranked officers of the Nigerian police

TL;DR

This study explores how burnout affects community policing efforts among junior Nigerian police officers.

Contribution

The study identifies specific burnout dimensions that significantly influence community policing practices.

Findings

Emotional exhaustion negatively predicts community policing practices.

Personal accomplishment positively predicts community policing practices.

Depersonalization negatively predicts community policing practices.

Abstract

This study investigates the psychological impact of burnout on community policing among junior Nigerian police officers. The study employed a quantitative approach using a cross-sectional design, which involved 180 officers from three State Police Commands. Three hypotheses were tested with the Linear Multiple Regression statistical tool. Results showed that Emotional exhaustion significantly negatively predicted the practice of community policing (β = −0.289, t = −3.196, p < 0.05). Personal accomplishment significantly positively predicted the practice of community policing (β = 0.387, t = 4.865, p < 001); and Depersonalization also significantly negatively predicted community policing (β = −0.379, t = −4.179, p < 001). The study suggests that increased emotional exhaustion and depersonalization lead to lower participation in community policing, while higher personal accomplishments encourage more active involvement. The study recommends professional development initiatives, supportive work environments, and comprehensive burnout prevention strategies.