A Self-Assessment Tool for Helping Identify Police Burnout Among Investigators of Child Sexual Abuse Material

• NCJ Number: 309651
• Author(s): Kimberly J. Mitchell; Jennifer E. O'Brien; Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan
• Date Published: August 2024
• Length: 8 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2019-R2-CX-0034
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)

Annotation

This paper describes a research study with the goal of developing a data-driven self-assessment tool for law enforcement personnel exposed to child sexual abuse material; it discusses the development of the tool as well as preliminary impacts and its potential for addressing the unique mental health challenges facing law enforcement personnel working on child abuse cases.

Abstract

Law enforcement professionals who investigate crimes involving child sexual abuse material face increased risk of mental health challenges, including burnout. This study aims to develop a data-driven self-assessment tool for law enforcement personnel exposed to child sexual abuse material. The tool assesses burnout symptoms and related mental health issues, offering a proactive approach to identifying and supporting individuals at risk. A mixed-methods investigation involved 500 police investigators and forensic examiners across the U.S. The study utilized a convenience sample recruited through various channels connected with the National Criminal Justice Training Center. Twenty percent of participants exhibited high burnout. The Burnout Self-Assessment Tool demonstrated a sensitivity of 69.6 percent and specificity of 74.6 percent at a cut-off point ≥2, correctly classifying 73.6 percent of the sample. Individuals with scores ≥2 were 3.47 times more likely to be experiencing high burnout than peers with a score of zero, with increasing odds with each additional score. High burnout was associated with longer tenure in current positions. The Burnout Self-Assessment Tool offers a short and simple self-assessment tool for law enforcement professionals exposed to child sexual abuse material, aiding in the early identification of burnout symptoms. A cut-off point ≥2 provides a data-driven strategy for identifying individuals at increased risk, promoting timely intervention and support to mitigate burnout's adverse effects on mental well-being and professional performance. The Burnout Self-Assessment Tool's sensitivity and specificity balance enhances its utility, providing a proactive approach to address the unique mental health challenges faced by law enforcement personnel combating crimes involving child sexual abuse material. (Published Abstract Provided)