Failed Psych

[Meant2BBlu]

I just spent the past 8 months going through the hiring process with Clayton County PD here in Jonesboro, GA. I made it through every phase, even got the conditional hire. So anyway I went for my psych and the dang shrink said that I do not meet the criteria to be a police officer. So now, should I apply to other departments or should I just give up now. I truly believe I'm supposed to be out working the beat with you other men and women wearing a badge, but apparently science doesnt feel the same. Any thoughts and/or opinions would be appreciated.

[bdunndchi]

Do you have any idea why you failed? Do you have any psych problems, or past depression?

[Meant2BBlu]

I did have a very brief stent of depression right after I got back home from overseas in 2004 but I know a lot of guys who had the same symtoms as me and they got hired by different departments. Thats what I dont understand.

[Nate_07]

Never give up! If you fail and give up and then reapply years down the road it wont look as good as never giving up in the first place. Keep on trying many agency's will
give you a shot even after failing. Just because one person says your not fit does not mean that you will never be an officer. It takes time and dedication. Get involved with your local agency's volunteer, do a citizens academy just show that you are there to stay.

I have heard storys of officers being told they will never be a cop but after sticking with it they get hired and most of those officers become some of the best that the city will ever have.

[Meant2BBlu]

Thanks Nate, I'm gonna do everything I can. I've wanted to be in law enforcement since I was a kid. Blue runs through my blood. I just need my chance to prove myself. I know its where I'm supposed to be.

[Shaidon]

The doctor probably failed you because you are crazy! Sheesh..obvious right? Sorry had to joke a little there. The things is...Psych interviews are just that. One person formulating an opinion on how you would fit in with that department and doing police work in general. What one Psych doctor says, another might think the complete opposite. Maybe you were more compassionate/sensitive, and the department is looking for very aggressive individuals. You never know.

The only thing I can say is...Don't give up, and don't let it get you down. Keep applying for other places and you will get it. Just don't sweat it

[Meant2BBlu]

Oh is that it??? You cant be a cop if you're crazy??? WHY AINT NOBODY TELL ME!!!... This answers EVERYTHING...

[Shaidon]

LOL

Remember...never lose your sense of humor!

[ask80]

when i had my psych, my doc said that you have to be crazy to be a cop. lol...

[Traffic_82]

It happens more often than you'd think.

Look on the brightside, you're background is obviously clean enough, you now know how to deliver a competent oral board performance, and you've already been through the poly ringer (assuming here).

With the next agency, it should come smoothly.

[Meant2BBlu]

yea you're right. I passed the poly no problem, I did have a misdemeanor arrest in my background, but that was ok and the oral board gave me hell about it (moreso jokes than anything negative) and the chief's inerview went great also. Written tests were all great and I was one of the top times in the agilities test. So, yea....I'm ready for round 2.

[MacPointMan]

Applying for Clayton County here as well. I too Just got back from Overseas a few months ago. The psych is what makes me a bit nervous because of the War thing.

I don't think I'll have a problem with the Background I was totally honest in my packet I don't have much to hide. I already have a Clearance with the Military.

All of the Officers with the Department are pretty positive and the county is hiring on the fast track right now. So hopefully things will go well. I am definitely in it 110%.

If for some reason they reject me ill try again in 6 months and see what happens. I have wanted to be a cop for a very long time and figure I have matured enough to be one now.

MacPointMan

[PhilipCal]

I've often wondered why they don't let Cops give hiring process tests to Shrinks. It's very difficult for me, or any of us to really guess why you failed. I urge you to NOT let this be the end of your efforts. I can certainly understand you're being discouraged at the moment. Pick yourself up, and keep applying, especially as strongly as you feel about becoming an Officer. Good luck.