Stress management and operational performance of police officers in border regions

Abstract

Introduction: The well-being of police officers has been essential for their performance, especially in unsafe environments such as the border region of Tulcán, Ecuador. In fact, work stress and the lack of adequate institutional support have affected their physical, mental and emotional health. Therefore, the present study is aimed at analyzing the factors that affect the physical, mental and emotional well-being of police officers in Ecuador, with special emphasis on the border region of Tulcán. In addition, solutions are proposed to improve institutional support and the balance between work and personal life, to optimize their performance and effectiveness in fulfilling their duties.
Methods: To achieve this objective, a methodological approach was used that included PESTEL analysis to measure each factor that impacts the well-being of officers. While to evaluate the most significant factor, Saaty's AHP method was applied.
Results: The results indicated that stress and social distrust are critical factors, and that individual coping strategies, although useful, are not sufficient without organizational change. Furthermore, the lack of structured institutional support contributed to the intensification of stress among police officers.
Conclusions: It was concluded that it is urgent to implement public policies that promote comprehensive well-being, by improving psychological support programs. Likewise, a collaborative work environment is encouraged that strengthens both the resilience of officers and their operational effectiveness.