Exploring the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder among police officers investigating sexual offences against minors

This research explores the mental health challenges encountered by law enforcement officers engaged in investigating sexual offenses against minors. The study delves into the prevalence and repercussions of secondary traumatic stress (STS) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among officers, examining factors such as exposure to explicit materials, empathetic stress, and the emotional toll of interacting with survivors and offenders. Secondary research was conducted where data was collected from secondary sources integrating both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Thematic analysis of existing qualitative studies uncovered officers' perceptions and coping mechanisms, while quantitative analysis assessed PTSD and STS prevalence and associated factors. The research identifies key stressors inherent in the investigative process, such as heavy caseloads, interagency tensions, and organizational support strategies. Additionally, the research discusses the unique emotional toll of investigating internet child exploitation cases and emphasizes the importance of supportive workplace cultures and effective coping mechanisms. Overall, the findings contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of investigations into sexual offenses against minors and promoting the well-being of law enforcement personnel in this challenging field.