Stress, Trauma, and Burnout in Forensic Scientists

The world of forensic science and death investigation is always unpredictable and demanding. Large caseloads, hazardous materials, traumatic evidence, and other complexities related to the job can have a direct effect on staff. Individuals working in this field are continually faced with an incredible amount of grief, sadness, pressure, and stress. This webinar presents a comprehensive literature review as well as preliminary results from a cross-discipline, cross-sectional study examining the prevalence of vicarious trauma and burnout from more than 500 forensic practitioner respondents. Additionally, the need for stress and trauma awareness training and a structured peer support system are discussed as a valuable endeavor for any organization whose employees are faced with sensitive, challenging, and traumatic events or information every day.

This webinar was hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on March 28, 2023.