A qualitative exploration of UK police investigative interviewers’ experiences of their role

Abstract

Literature ReviewThe literature review explored the extent and predictors of work-related distress amongst community corrections personnel. Following the systematic search of five databases, 19 quantitative papers were identified as relevant to the current research question and included in the review. Sixteen addressed burnout and the remainder investigated secondary trauma, vicarious trauma, and compassion fatigue. Synthesis revealed community corrections personnel reported burnout at levels akin to other professions working in forensic contexts, though reports of secondary trauma appeared higher. Predictive factors encompassed personal characteristics, role-based, and organisational-related factors. Research to date has little examined responses to indirect trauma. Given evidence if elevated secondary trauma, this should be privileged in future research. Empirical Research Project The role of investigative interviewers can involve in-depth exploration of trauma experienced by vulnerable interviewees. Such indirect exposure to others’ distress may have adverse impacts for police staff that is likely further influenced by organisational culture, support and awareness. The present study aimed to qualitatively explore investigative interviewers’ experiences in undertaking their role in the context of working in a UK police force. Sixteen participants, employed as investigative interviewers across three UK police forces, participated in individual semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using framework analysis to explore emergent themes encapsulating investigators’ experiences. Five super-ordinate themes were elicited reported as influencing responses to interviewing work comprising: organisational structure; organisational culture; emotional coping strategies; role challenges; and role fulfilment. The research described the emotional impact of investigative interviewing, highlighting organisational, cultural and role based factors that provide further challenges for this population. The findings had several clinical and organisational implications for police services, and future research ideas were discussed.