Psychological skills inventory for law enforcement (PSI-LE): development and validation of a multidimensional measure of psychological skill use for law enforcement

Abstract

ABSTRACT The primary purpose of the present study was to develop a practical, reliable, and valid self-assessment of the use of psychological skills for law enforcement personnel. The Psychological Skills Inventory – Law Enforcement (PSI-LE) gauges the use of seven central mental skills common within psychological skills training (PST) programs: attention management, winning mindset, combat breathing, muscle control, mental practice, physical recharge, and self-talk. Following a developmental pilot of the scale, the PSI-LE was administered to 576 law enforcement officers. The ensuing analyses resulted in a final 26-item inventory that demonstrated acceptable psychometric properties. Findings are discussed with respect to practical implications and future research involving the PSI-LE. Specific emphasis is placed on the use of the PSI-LE to assess and validate the impact of officer PST programs.