Officer Friel has just pulled over a motorist exceeding the speed limit by 40 miles per hour. When he approaches the vehicle, he recognizes the driver as his best friend's daughter. Officer Friel is aware that the young lady has had some money problems and the last thing she can afford is a $200 speeding ticket that will also raise her insurance rates.
At this point, which of the following terms best describes the position facing Officer Friel?
A) Officer Friel is experiencing role strain.
B) Officer Friel is experiencing role conflict.
C) Officer Friel is now engaged in role reversal.
D) Officer Friel is faced with status inconsistency.
Answer (2)
Officer Friel is experiencing role conflict. Role conflict is a situation in which someone is expected to play 2 incompatible roles. In this case he is an officer and he is also the friend. Which side does he choose.
Officer Friel is experiencing role conflict, as he faces competing demands from his role as a police officer and his friendship with the driver's family. He must choose between enforcing the law and considering the personal circumstances of the young lady. This conflict illustrates the challenges individuals face when two roles they occupy impose contradictory expectations.
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