Comparing Police Overwork in China and the USA: An Exploratory Study of Death from Overwork (‘Karoshi’) in Policing

Abstract

Although research has been conducted regarding policing in China and the USA, few researchers have compared and contrasted the similarities and differences between policing in the two countries. In our study, we examined how overextended working hours can impact a police department's officers and personnel as well as affect the physical and psychological health that impairs the safety of police and the public in China and the USA. Given that Karoshi (death from overwork) among a variety of occupational groups is commonly recognised in Japan, China and other countries, the authors contend that the problem also exists in policing – one of the most public working groups; thus, this issue should be of great public concern that warrants further examination and discussion.