Victimization, stress and use of force among South Korean police officers

Purpose - This study aims to assess the direct and indirect impact of stress on police use of force among a sample of male South Korean frontline officers (n = 574). Design/methodology/approach - Largely drawing on a methodological approach adopted by Manzoni and Eisner the paper employs a structural equation modeling approach. Findings - The study discovered a direct positive influence of operational stress on use of force frequency, even while controlling for police routine activities and police victimization. Originality/value - The findings of this study and their implications are discussed in depth against the unique South Korean background where frontline officers are routinely victimized by suspects and citizens.