@article{ref1,
title="A self-assessment tool for helping identify police burnout among investigators of child sexual abuse material",
journal="AJPM Focus",
year="2024",
author="Mitchell, Kimberly J. and O'Brien, Jennifer E. and Gewirtz-Meydan, Ateret",
volume="3",
number="4",
pages="e100245-e100245",
abstract="INTRODUCTION: 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. <br><br>METHODS: 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. <br><br>RESULTS: Twenty percent of participants exhibited high burnout. The Burnout Self-Assessment Tool demonstrated a sensitivity of 69.6% and specificity of 74.6% at a cut-off point ≥2, correctly classifying 73.6% 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. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: 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.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2773-0654",
doi="10.1016/j.focus.2024.100245",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.focus.2024.100245"
}