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Fine A, Snider KM, Miller MK. Testing the model of judicial stress using a COVID-era survey of U.S. federal court personnel. PSYCHIATRY, PSYCHOLOGY, AND LAW : AN INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION OF PSYCHIATRY, PSYCHOLOGY AND LAW 2024; 31:381-400. [PMID: 38895725 PMCID: PMC11182057 DOI: 10.1080/13218719.2024.2343091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Non-judicial court personnel, critical to a well-functioning justice system, experience overloaded dockets and the responsibility of making significant decisions, contributing to cognitive stress. Understanding and mitigating their stress is essential for maintaining judicial efficiency. We adapted Miller and Richardson's Model of Judicial Stress to assess stress in a broad sample of non-judicial court personnel (n = 122), including judges, lawyers, and administrative staff. Participants responded to surveys about their stress levels, job performance, and health; they also completed cognitive performance tasks. The findings indicated that stress negatively affected employee outcomes including cognitive performance, job performance, job satisfaction, and health outcomes. Notably, perceived job performance had declined compared to the previous year, suggesting that the pandemic was an additional significant stressor. Based on the data, the Model of Judicial Stress is also applicable to other types of courtroom personnel, underlining its relevance across various judicial roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fine
- Interdisciplinary Social Psychology PhD Program, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Katie M. Snider
- Interdisciplinary Social Psychology PhD Program, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Monica K. Miller
- Interdisciplinary Social Psychology PhD Program, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
- Department of Criminal Justice, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, USA
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Almazrouei MA, Kukucka J, Morgan RM, Levy I. Unpacking workplace stress and forensic expert decision-making: From theory to practice. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2024; 8:100473. [PMID: 38737991 PMCID: PMC11087230 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2024.100473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Workplace stress can affect forensic experts' job satisfaction and performance, which holds financial and other implications for forensic service providers. Therefore, it is important to understand and manage workplace stress, but that is not simple or straightforward. This paper explores stress as a human factor that influences forensic expert decision-making. First, we identify and highlight three factors that mitigate decisions under stress conditions: nature of decision, individual differences, and context of decision. Second, we situate workplace stress in forensic science within the Challenge-Hindrance Stressor Framework. We argue that stressors in forensic science workplaces can have a positive or a negative impact, depending on the type, level, and context of stress. Developing an understanding of the stressors, their sources, and their possible impact can help forensic service providers and researchers to implement context-specific interventions to manage stress at work and optimize expert performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A. Almazrouei
- Center for Neurocognition and Behavior, Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jeff Kukucka
- Department of Psychology, Towson University, Towson, MD, USA
| | - Ruth M. Morgan
- Centre for the Forensic Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ifat Levy
- Center for Neurocognition and Behavior, Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Bhattarai M, Clements PT, Downing NR. Mindfulness-Based Self-Care for Forensic Nurses: A Professional Lifestyle Approach. JOURNAL OF FORENSIC NURSING 2024; 20:138-147. [PMID: 37890157 DOI: 10.1097/jfn.0000000000000456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Forensic nurses providing care to patients who are victims or offenders of abuse, trauma, or violence often face enormous challenges in their daily practice, leading to emotional stress, vicarious traumatization, and burnout, and potentially reducing the quality of patient care. Embracing mindfulness as an ongoing method of self-care can have an array of benefits for forensic nurses to prevent burnout and improve their well-being and quality of patient care. Existing literature supports the benefits of mindfulness-based interventions, as self-care practices, in improving many positive health outcomes among nurses working in a variety of healthcare settings. Mindfulness qualities, such as open awareness, attention to detail, nonjudgment, emotional regulation, compassion, and empathy, can contribute to forensic nurses' well-being and the quality of patient care. Mindfulness is a way of living; thus, formal and informal mindful self-care tools integrated into daily nursing practice can result in better outcomes and work satisfaction among nurses. This article discusses the potential benefits of mindfulness and practical ways to integrate mindfulness tools into forensic nursing practice. Incorporating mindful self-care practices should be a goal for consideration for the contemporary forensic nursing profession at large. Further intervention research is recommended to identify the mechanism of how mindfulness can benefit forensic nurses practicing in highly challenging work environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nancy R Downing
- Center of Excellence in Forensic Nursing, Texas A&M University
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Duran F, Woodhams J. Impact of Traumatic Material on Professionals in Analytical and Secondary Investigative Roles Working in Criminal Justice Settings: a Qualitative Approach. JOURNAL OF POLICE AND CRIMINAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 37:904-917. [PMID: 35892125 PMCID: PMC9302215 DOI: 10.1007/s11896-022-09532-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Professionals in analytical and secondary investigative roles are exposed to violent material on a daily basis with full immersion in the details of serious offenses. However, there is limited evidence of the impact of this on their mental health. Therefore, this research aims to explore the impact of traumatic material on the mental health of these professionals in police and law enforcement and the strategies they employ to cope with the nature of their work. Forty semi-structured interviews were conducted with these professionals from UK, Canada, and Europe. Five key themes were identified: "Analyzing material," "Negative Influences," "Coping Strategies," "Additional Risk Factors," and "Protective Factors." From the findings, it is evident that these professionals are at significant risk of developing secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and sleep problems. The constant exposure to this material negatively influenced their feelings about their home and social lives. The implications of these findings and avenues for providing a supportive working environment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazeelat Duran
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, 52 Pritchatts road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Jessica Woodhams
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, 52 Pritchatts road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
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The application of CT for 3D visualization of concealed bodies. Sci Justice 2022; 62:424-432. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Mitchell KJ, Gewirtz-Meydan A, O'Brien J, Finkelhor D. Practices and Policies Around Wellness: Insights From the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Network. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:931268. [PMID: 35795031 PMCID: PMC9251118 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.931268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This article aims to understand what practices and training Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Forces and affiliated agencies are currently using to help mitigate distress and promote wellbeing among investigators of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Data were collected via telephone interviews with Commanders of 54 ICAC Task Forces as well as an online survey of 155 investigators at ICAC-affiliated agencies. Sixty-two percent of respondents said their agency had an Officer Wellness Program. Findings highlighted considerable gaps in protective practices with 46.1% of respondents mentioning the need for more wellness resources in their agency for personnel who have viewed CSAM as a high priority. Stigma created by help-seeking was the most widely acknowledged barrier discussed in relation to police wellness. A large and salient problem was the persistent lack of wellness practices in the affiliated agencies in comparison to the Task Forces themselves. Exposure to CSAM can be a source of stress for personnel and the results indicate concern about the problem and a diffusion of proactive initiatives, but barriers and inconsistent adoption remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly J Mitchell
- Crimes Against Children Research Center, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, United States
| | - Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jennifer O'Brien
- Department of Social Work, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, United States
| | - David Finkelhor
- Crimes Against Children Research Center, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, United States
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Drake SA, Thoene C, Foster M, Porta C, Pickens AW. Medicolegal death investigator workplace safety hazards: A scoping review of the literature. J Forensic Sci 2021; 67:44-55. [PMID: 34713452 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, medicolegal death investigation practices and policies pertaining to sudden unexpected deaths are mandated by state government. Practices vary across states, which contributes to inconsistency in job prerequisites and training. In preparation for a study focused on occupational safety and health of medicolegal death investigators in their on-scene and follow-up activities, a scoping review was conducted to document known occupational safety risks and health-related conditions associated with death investigation. Searches used Boolean and subject heading operators both broad and narrow in scope, and search terms included scene responder, hazard, investigator, forensic pathology, injury, and safety. Twenty-five articles met inclusion criteria, which included seventeen survey-mixed method designs, two systematic reviews, five quasi-experimental designs, and one case study. Twelve articles addressed mental health and eleven focused on risks associated with infectious disease. One article addressed the risk of chemical exposure from cyanide among autopsy personnel (including forensic pathologists) and nine included a wide range of employees within the setting of medical examiner or coroner offices. One article, addressing burnout, included employees in a forensic science laboratory setting as well as medicolegal death investigators and two articles included forensic pathologists and medicolegal death investigators. Only one article addressed medicolegal death investigators specifically. Articles addressing occupational and environmental hazards of medicolegal death investigators associated with musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, radiological, nuclear, electrical, or explosive threats were not identified. There is little published about safety risks inherent in conducting death investigations. Research is needed to adequately inform health promotion and injury prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caitlyn Thoene
- Forensic Sciences Department, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Margaret Foster
- Libraries Department, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Carolyn Porta
- Academic Health Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Adam W Pickens
- Environmental and Occupational Health Department, Texas A&M School of Public Health, College Station, Texas, USA
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Byard RW. The right to mourn: Post-traumatic stress and the forensic pathologist. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2021; 61:302-304. [PMID: 34092133 DOI: 10.1177/00258024211019624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition characterised by recurrent intrusive distressing memories of a traumatic event(s) with recurrent dreams and flashbacks. Given the nature of standard forensic pathology practice which involves on-going assessments of violent crimes and their sequelae with autopsy dissections of victims and in detail study of injuries, it is surprising that more has not been written on this in the literature. Perhaps PTSD should be studied further in a forensic context with a recognition that years of intimate exposure to violence may lead to accumulated, ongoing and unresolved grief in practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger W Byard
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Australia
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Levin AP, Putney H, Crimmins D, McGrath JG. Secondary traumatic stress, burnout, compassion satisfaction, and perceived organizational trauma readiness in forensic science professionals. J Forensic Sci 2021; 66:1758-1769. [PMID: 34132387 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and compassion satisfaction have been described since the 1980s and extensively studied in first responders, law enforcement, legal professionals, and human service providers. There are few studies in forensic science professionals. To determine levels of secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and compassion satisfaction and relate these to demographics and job characteristics, we administered online a modified version of the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) questionnaire to professionals in crime laboratories and medical examiner offices. Participants also completed a modified version of the Vicarious Trauma-Organizational Readiness Guide (VT-ORG) to measure perceptions of their organizations' efforts to address vicarious trauma and promote health and wellness. Results from 419 subjects indicated that field-based forensic science professionals registered higher levels of secondary traumatic stress compared to laboratory-based professionals, but burnout and compassion satisfaction were not significantly different between these groups. Demographic variables did not predict any of these outcome measures, but work with victims' families and testifying significantly, albeit weakly, predicted higher secondary traumatic stress. Greater employee belief that their organizations were addressing issues of stress and trauma predicted lower levels of secondary traumatic stress and burnout and higher levels of compassion satisfaction. Write-in responses by participants paralleled the quantitative findings. These results indicate a need to strengthen organizational efforts to address stress and trauma and promote health and wellness, particularly in professionals with direct field-based exposure to crime scenes, contact with victims' families, and responsibility for testifying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Levin
- Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,National Institute of Justice, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heidi Putney
- National Institute of Justice, Washington, DC, USA
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