Special Operation Response Team (SORT/SWAT) Assessment

Special Operation Response Teams are made up of highly trained, skilled members who are called upon during times of serious threat or crisis. It is a local, state, and federal priority to set up effective safety and security programs to help maximize deterrence to crime and terrorism; only the very best SORT/SWAT candidates—from among their experienced officers—are chosen for high-risk assignments. Due to the high level of stress they face in their daily jobs, it is imperative these members be psychologically evaluated.

Numerous law enforcement professionals (police departments, sheriff’s offices, and fire departments) in Middle Tennessee have identified qualities or characteristics of a good SORT/SWAT member. These include:

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Intelligence • Common sense • Sense of humor • Team player • Ability to work under extreme stress • Self-disciplined • Self-motivated • Dependable • Responsible • Courageous • Trustworthy • Positive attitude • Competent • Self-confident • Integrity • Honest • Drive and determination • Professionalism • Perseverance • Goal-oriented • Physically fit • Emotionally stable • Good decision maker

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The use of psychological evaluations is most frequently found in the selection of SORT/SWAT tactical team members and crisis/hostage negotiators. This not only adds perceived validity to the selection process, it increases the accuracy of the selections. The evaluation is used to assess finalists, or a pool of qualified finalists, for special assignment, selecting candidates with the best fit for the position and screening out the less fit. Ultimately the psychological evaluation assures the best team members are chosen, and thus reduces the agency’s exposure to liability.