Developing a socio‐ecological model of risk for vicarious trauma and occupational stress that guides primary prevention strategies in the forensic sciences

While the forensic sciences offer versatile and rewarding careers, practitioners and administrative staff within the field report high levels of occupational stress (OS). OS stems from job tasks and requirements, workplace culture, and the broader legal system, ranging from job strain to more severe vicarious trauma and secondary traumatic stress (VT/STS). Despite recognition of the consequences of OS in forensic sciences, most research focuses on individual risk factors without considering the broader context. The aim of this study was to develop a socio-ecological model specifically for use within the forensic sciences that holistically overviews the sources and risk factors for OS and VT/STS. To underpin and develop this model, a three-step mixed studies critical review was conducted, comprising a literature search, in-depth analysis of empirical literature using robust methods, and a thematic content analysis. The identified themes were subsequently grouped within five identified OS domains: individual, interpersonal, job content, job context, and sociopolitical. The findings indicated that the risk for developing OS and VT/STS in the forensic sciences can be understood through the factors across the five domains. The risk factors and the five domains are explored in detail within the present article. Recommendations for addressing OS and VT/STS include interventions to identify, remove, and manage risks for OS across all five domains, recognizing the impact that the job content, job context, and sociopolitical factors have on an individual's resilience to workplace demands. We conclude by providing future research directions that will enhance the model specifically developed for this paper.