Occupational Medicine & Health Affairs
Open Access

Abstract

This paper explores the unique challenges faced by the border security officers of Singapore with limited prior research of similar nature in this geographical region. One thousand and six participants working in the border security agency provided data using a questionnaire completed anonymously. The scales used in the questionnaires includes measures of mental wellness and of challenges faced at work (Occupational and Organizational Stress). Findings from the study found similar challenges faced by these border security officers as to police officers as well as challenges unique to border security. These include shift-work, long working hours and inadequate rest, exposure to danger and hazards, threat-avoidant vigilant activity, job demands, contact with public and critical incidents. This study also provides recommendations to support the mental resiliency of these Guardians of the Borders

Biography

A Senior Psychologist with the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority of Singapore, which recently housed a new psychological branch to provide psychological services to border security officers. Andrew focus primarily on pioneering work that includes setting up psychological services such as counselling services and mental resilience support. Andrew has also worked within other Home Team departments in related field. He was a Correctional Psychologist for 6 years with the Singapore Prison Service (SPS). He was also a National Service Police Inspector (NSI) with the Police Psychological Services Division (PPSD), serving as a Psychological Support Officer (PSO) since 2010. His field of work with Prison also include rehabilitation work for the violent offender population, violent risk assessments, training delivery and crisis management.

Email: andrew_neo@ica.gov.sg