Brian A. Kinnaird Ph.D.

About

Brian A. Kinnaird, Ph.D., is a professor and researcher specializing in police social systems and organizational culture. Since 2001, he has served on the criminal justice faculty at both public and private institutions of higher education including posts as director, department chair, and police academy instructor. Dr. Kinnaird was a Policy Fellow with the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University and is widely published in a variety of peer-reviewed and trade outlets.

Prior to entering academia, Dr. Kinnaird served in uniform as a deputy sheriff for the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office in Hays, KS. During his tenure in the patrol division, he was assigned to posts as tactical team operator, shift supervisor, and field training officer.

Dr. Kinnaird is the author of Life After Law Enforcement, a peer support resource for police veterans and their families. His work explores the gamut of service-related and life transition challenges that can negatively impact an officer’s capacity to lead a healthy and productive life beyond the badge.

Books by Brian A. Kinnaird Ph.D.

Recent Posts

Leaving Law Enforcement: How to Turn Transition Into Triumph

How law enforcement officers and veterans can take stock of coping resources and take charge of the service-to-civilian transition.

The Challenges Police Officers Face When Leaving the Force

When law enforcement officers enter civilian life, they can experience challenges that can include feelings of loss, uncertainty, and isolation.

Stress and the Service-to-Civilian Transition

The end of a police career marks a new chapter in the lives of police veterans. Find out how transition stress can disrupt a healthy adaptation.

A Former Cop's Battle With Benzodiazepines

Personal Perspective: Cops and veterans deserve a “deep dive” when it comes to the treatment of psychological distress. For me, that dive was dangerously shallow.

6 Ways Police Veterans Become Trapped

Forging a healthy post-service trajectory through transition often requires a confrontation with yourself. Find out how you can become “stuck.”

Peer-to-Peer Support for Police Veterans

How post-service peer support can enhance personal wellness for officers who are transitioning from service to civilian life.

Peer Support Beyond the Badge

Peer support is a commonly held police practice for actively serving officers. Find out why it can also be valuable when leaving a law enforcement career.

Loving and Leaving the Badge

Transitioning from service to civilian life can leave officers socially disconnected and grieving a lost identity. Find out how to bridge both worlds for improved wellness.

The Case for Former Cops

Walking away from the splendor and strain of a life oriented to serve and protect can be hard for any officer. Are you prepared?

Police Force and Policy

Policy reform in policing means creating new policy or changing the current one so agencies can protect the ones who ultimately protect us. A step-by-step guide can help!