Course Details
Course Description
This course examines the neurobiological and cognitive consequences of PTSD as they apply to psychological pre-employment evaluation of peace officer candidates. Drawing on peer-reviewed research in police psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and electrophysiology—including the University at Buffalo studies by Violanti and colleagues—participants will develop a comprehensive understanding of how trauma-related brain changes affect threat perception, response inhibition, and use-of-force decision-making. Assessment implications for current PEPE practice, including MMPI-3 applications, are addressed throughout.
Course Objectives
Identify the neurobiological mechanisms by which PTSD alter amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampal functioning and explain how these changes increase risk for use-of-force errors in peace officers
Describe the cognitive deficits associated with PTSD - including impairments in response inhibition, working memory, and attentional control - as documented in peer-reviewed research with law enforcement samples
Differentiate between PTSD as an emotional regulation concern and PTSD as a cognitive impairment concern within the framework of peace officer pre-employment psychological evaluation
Apply findings from the University of Buffalo neurophysiological research program, including event-related potential evidence from law enforcement samples, to inform interview strategy and data integration in pre-employment evaluations of trauma-exposed candidates
Analyze the pathway from PTSD-related neurobiological changes to elevated rates of excessive force allegations, identifying the specific cognitive capacities - including bias suppression, impulse control, and perspective-taking - that are impaired by chronic trauma exposure