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Abstract: 

Although research on the wellbeing of forensic populations continues to expand, empirical attention directed toward a greater understanding of the wellbeing challenges faced by frontline forensic staff remains limited. This situation is somewhat puzzling given indications that these individuals experience higher rates of serious mental health challenges compared to professionals from other fields. The aim of this study is to provide a more detailed understanding of the workplace wellbeing challenges experienced by frontline justice care professionals, including the adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies they employ to meet these challenges. A thematic analysis conducted on the information gathered through a series of focus groups identified six major wellbeing challenges as well as a variety of adaptive and maladaptive coping mechanisms that are employed as strategic responses. The results of this study provide important foundational information regarding the wellbeing experiences of frontline forensic staff and may assist with the development of interventions to help these professionals maintain their psychological health.

Keywords: Frontline justice care professionals, forensic staff wellbeing, dual responsibility, wellbeing challenges, coping strategies

Affiliations:  1: Alfred Health; 2: Swinburne University; 3: Swinburne University; 4: Happy Feet Studios.