Study Uncovers Impact of Stress on Forensic Services Staff

Research from Griffith University has shed light on the impact of organizational and occupational stress on staff working in forensic services. Published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences, this study reveals critical insights into how these stressors affect the well-being of police personnel tasked with examining crime scenes and analyzing evidence.

Dr. Jacob Keech, from Griffith’s School of Applied Psychology, emphasized that while much attention is given to trauma exposure among police officers, the broader demands of their roles also significantly influence their mental health. The study aimed to identify various stress factors impacting forensic staff and to explore workplace resources that might mitigate stress and prevent burnout.

The research identified several organizational stressors, including an unequal distribution of work responsibilities, cumbersome bureaucratic processes, and excessive administrative tasks. Dr. Keech pointed out that additional factors, such as working alone during night shifts, the risk of on-the-job injuries, and irregular hours, further contributed to staff stress levels.

The findings indicate that organizational and operational pressures, rather than direct trauma exposure, are the strongest predictors of negative well-being outcomes, such as burnout and distress. Many staff members reported feeling overwhelmed by administrative duties and expressed concerns about letting their teams down due to perceived slow work pace. They also faced challenges balancing their professional and personal lives, leading to doubts about their thoroughness in investigations and worries about their colleagues’ performance affecting overall work standards.

Supportive Environments Can Mitigate Stress

Conversely, the study highlights the importance of supportive work environments. Staff who reported having supportive supervisors and peer networks, as well as a psychosocial safety climate where their well-being was prioritized, experienced lower levels of burnout and higher job satisfaction.

Dr. Keech stated that enhancing the well-being of forensic staff requires a comprehensive approach that extends beyond trauma support. He advocates for police agencies to focus on alleviating organizational and administrative burdens and fostering a culture prioritizing well-being across all management levels.

To this end, Dr. Keech and Associate Professor Jacqueline Drew have developed the EMPOWER Leaders Program. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of mid-level police leaders, enabling them to improve both their own health and that of their teams.

The study underscores the pressing need for police organizations to reassess their approach to staff well-being. By addressing the root causes of stress and fostering supportive work environments, agencies can significantly improve the overall mental health of their personnel.

More information about this research can be found in the article by Jacob J. Keech et al, titled “Workplace demands, resources, and well-being among police staff working in forensic services,” published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences on November 11, 2025.