Through the work Probation Officers do they experience the suffering of others and may be impacted by trauma in a secondary way, known as Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS). Experiencing STS can impact a Probation Officer’s wellbeing, resilience, and how they view the world. It can also result in changes to the way the officer manages offenders, which could subsequently increase their risk of re-offending.

This study used a survey to administer the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS), the Four-Item Patient Health Questionnaire for Anxiety and Depression (PHQ-4), and other work-related measures (stress, job satisfaction, workload, exhaustion, and support). 

The sample included 275 probation officers. The demographics of the sample mapped closely to those of the national Probation Officer population. Analyses confirmed that the STSS was a valid and reliable screening tool in this population. Of participants, 62% were experiencing some kind of psychological distress and 79% of participants were experiencing some level of STS (with 57% experiencing moderate, high, or severe levels). Despite this, participants demonstrated good levels of job satisfaction. Anxiety, depression, stress, a high workload, feeling exhausted and having a low level of job satisfaction were identified as risk factors for development of STS. Support was identified as a protective factor. 

The STSS is proposed as a helpful screening tool in identifying Probation Officers who are at risk. A Professional Supervision model and/or a training package to upskill leaders in understanding and responding to signs of STS is proposed.