Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Practice Exam

In which situations are officers said to likely have a panic attack?

1. Situational Predisposed

2. Chronic

3. Generalized Anxiety

4. Situational

The correct answer is: Situational Predisposed

Officers are likely to experience a panic attack in situational predisposed circumstances because these situations involve specific, identifiable stressors that can trigger fear or anxiety. For law enforcement officers, situations such as responding to high-stress incidents like active shooter events, hostage situations, or any unpredictable encounter can create an intense emotional response. In such instances, the pressure to maintain composure and manage potentially life-threatening circumstances can overwhelm an officer, leading to panic attacks. Situational predisposition refers to a scenario where the environment or context creates a heightened state of anxiety since the officer is aware of potential danger or high stakes. Understanding that certain situations might act as triggers for panic is essential for training and preparedness. Proper mental health training, coping mechanisms, and awareness of stress signs can help mitigate this risk, but the reality of front-line work often means that these situational stressors can lead to acute anxiety responses like panic attacks.