The Forensics of Fatigue: Examining Secondary Traumatic Stress and Burnout Among Forensic Interviewers

• In Event: Police Perceptions, Stressors and Victim Experiences in Criminal Justice Procedures

Abstract

Forensic interviewers are responsible for obtaining accurate information during interviews with child witnesses and victims. As a result, forensic interviewers are regularly exposed to graphic materials including images, videos, and statements made by child victims. Previous studies have found that frequent exposure to traumatic events and graphic materials can have a profound impact on one’s personal and professional quality of life. To date, however, relatively few studies have addressed the issues of personal and work-related stressors associated with secondary traumatic stress and burnout among forensic interviewers. We present findings from an online, mixed-method study of 367 professionals who conduct forensic interviews with child witnesses and victims. Implications and avenues for future research will be discussed.

Authors

• Patrick Quinn Brady, The University of West Georgia

• Ashley Fansher, Sam Houston State University

• Sara Zedaker, The University of Houston-Victoria