What sense do officers who overidentify with their role often struggle with?

Officers who overidentify with their role often struggle with a sense of self because their personal identity becomes deeply intertwined with their professional role as law enforcement officers. This overidentification can lead to a diminished awareness of their individual needs, desires, and interests outside of their job. When law enforcement personnel excessively associate their self-worth and identity with their profession, they may lose sight of who they are as individuals, resulting in challenges such as burnout, stress, and difficulty in forming personal relationships.

Maintaining a healthy sense of self is crucial for officers to navigate the emotional and psychological demands of their job effectively. It allows them to establish boundaries between their professional obligations and personal lives, promoting overall mental well-being. This balance is essential not just for their personal health but also for their effectiveness in serving the community.