Secondary Traumatic Stress and Burnout among Law Enforcement Investigators Exposed to Disturbing Media Images

Authors

Lisa M. Perez, Minnesota State University - Mankato
Jeremy Jones, Federal Management Partners
David Englert, Malcolm Grow Medical Center, United States Air Force, Andrews Air Force Base, MA
Daniel Sachau, Minnesota State University - MankatoFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-2010

Abstract

This study examines the psychological impact of viewing disturbing media on investigators engaged in computer forensics work. Twenty-eight federal law enforcement personnel who investigate Internet child pornography cases completed measures of secondary traumatic stress disorder (STSD) and burnout. Substantial percentages of investigators reported poor psychological well-being. Greater exposure to disturbing media was related to higher levels of STSD and cynicism. STSD and burnout scores were related to increased protectiveness of family, reliance on co-workers, general distrust, and turnover intentions. On a positive note, investigators scored high in professional efficacy, indicating they feel their work makes a difference. Furthermore, personnel with supportive relationships scored lower on both STSD and burnout.

Department

Psychology

Publication Title

Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology

Recommended Citation

Perez, L., Jones, J., Englert, D., & Sachau, D. (2010). Secondary Traumatic Stress and Burnout among Law Enforcement Investigators Exposed to Disturbing Media Images. Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology, 25(2), 113-124. doi: 10.1007/s11896-010-9066-7

DOI

10.1007/s11896-010-9066-7

Link to Publisher Version (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11896-010-9066-7

Publisher's Copyright and Source

Copyright © 2010 Springer. Article published by Springer in Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology, volume 25, issue number 2, October 2010, pages 113-124. Available online:
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11896-010-9066-7