IntroductionLaw enforcement professionals who investigate child sexual abuse material face increased risk of mental health challenges, including burnout. This study aims to develop a data-driven self-assessment tool for law enforcement personnel exposed to child sexual abuse material. The tool assesses burnout symptoms and related mental health issues, offering a proactive approach to identifying and supporting individuals at risk. MethodsA mixed-methods investigation involved 500 police investigators and forensic examiners from the United States. The study utilized a convenience sample recruited through various channels connected with the National Criminal Justice Training Center. ResultsTwenty percent of participants exhibited high burnout. The BURNT demonstrated a sensitivity of 69.6% and specificity of 74.6% at a cutoff point of ≥2; correctly classifying 73.6% of the sample. Individuals with scores of 2 or more were 3.47 times more likely to be experiencing high burnout compared to peers with a score of zero with increasing odds with each additional score. High burnout was associated with longer tenure in current positions. ConclusionsThe BURNT offers a short and simple self-assessment tool for law enforcement professionals exposed to child sexual abuse material, aiding in the early identification of burnout symptoms. A cutoff point of ≥2 provides a data-driven strategy for identifying individuals at increased risk, promoting timely intervention and support to mitigate burnout's adverse effects on mental well-being and professional performance. The BURNT's sensitivity and specificity balance enhances its utility, providing a proactive approach to address the unique mental health challenges faced by law enforcement personnel combating child sexual abuse material.
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