Professor Patrick Brady, a criminal justice and criminology professor at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to share his research on the mental health challenges faced by digital forensic investigators, particularly those handling child sexual abuse material (CSAM) cases. Drawing from personal experiences and years of study, Professor Brady delves into secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and compassion satisfaction, highlighting the profound impact this work has on investigators and their families.

The discussion explores the importance of proper onboarding, specialised training, and leadership approaches that prioritise well-being. Professor Brady also examines the role of social support, stress management strategies, and organisational resources in helping investigators maintain a healthy work-life balance and manage the emotional toll of their work. With practical insights and a focus on fostering resilience, this episode provides a compelling look at how the industry can better support those on the front lines of digital forensics.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:45 Inspiration Behind the Research

01:11 Personal Experiences and Career Path

02:51 Exploring Vicarious Trauma and Burnout

04:58 Impact on Personal Life and Relationships

05:48 Research Findings and Implications

08:54 Challenges and Coping Mechanisms

09:36 Role of Supervisors and Administrators

10:10 Family Support and Social Dynamics

18:30 Technological Advancements and Training

20:19 Mental Health and Wellness Initiatives

30:42 Personal Reflections and Future Directions

37:36 Challenges in Researching Domestic Violence Among Police

40:03 Mindfulness and Mental Health in Policing

41:07 Importance of Specialized Training and Support

43:18 Stigma and Mental Health in Law Enforcement

46:45 Role of Psychologists and Continuity of Care

59:28 Support Systems and Family Involvement

01:02:47 Need for More Research and Funding

01:06:24 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this episode, these organisations may be of help:

Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org

Mind – https://www.mind.org.uk

Oscar Kilo – https://www.oscarkilo.org.uk/

Occupational health unit (OHU) – all police forces have access to an OHU providing a range of support services

Employee Assistance Scheme (EAS) – check with your employer to see what specific resources are available to you 

GP – your GP can provide access to various local resources and make referrals to psychological support services

Show Notes

Crimes Against Caring: Exploring the Risk of Secondary Traumatic Stress, Burnout, and Compassion Satisfaction Among Child Exploitation Investigators - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11896-016-9223-8

The dark figure of stalking: Examining law enforcement response - https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0886260515596979

Burnout Among Forensic Interviewers, How They Cope, and What Agencies Can Do to Help - https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1077559519843596

What We Can Learn About Vicarious Trauma From Child Maltreatment Investigators, Patrick Q. Brady, Ph.D. - https://www.forensicfocus.com/stable/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Vicarious-trauma.pdf

Identifying & Corroborating Stalking, Patrick Q. Brady, Ph.D. - https://www.forensicfocus.com/stable/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Identifying-corroborating-stalking.pdf