What common reaction might occur to officers after a high-stress incident?

After a high-stress incident, it is common for officers to experience combat stress, which can significantly affect their mental state. One notable reaction is memory distortion, where the officer may have difficulty recalling specific details of the incident accurately. This occurs due to the body’s natural response to extreme stress, which can lead to changes in perception and cognitive functioning. During high-stress situations, the brain may process information differently, leading to fragmented or altered memories of the event. This phenomenon is important for officers to understand as it can impact their debriefings, reports, and overall mental health after encountering intense situations.

Understanding this reaction is crucial for officers and trainers to develop strategies to cope with stress and ensure accurate recollection of events, aiding in both personal recovery and any subsequent legal or procedural reviews.