AAFS 2027

Beyond the Evidence: Supporting Mental Health and Resilience in Forensic Science

Tuesday, February 16, 2027 | 8:30 am – 12:00 pm

Program Description
Research consistently demonstrates that forensic science professionals are exposed to emotionally challenging and, at times, traumatic casework that may contribute to work-related stress, burnout, and vicarious trauma. While increasing attention has been given to the psychological effects of forensic work, important questions remain regarding why some individuals may be more vulnerable to these stressors and how organizations can better support employee well-being. This workshop will present new research examining the relationship between ACEs and occupational stress among forensic science professionals, including how personal histories may influence career pathways, case-related triggers, and responses to trauma exposure. Additional presentations will examine gender differences in work-related stress, discuss the importance of integrating resilience-building into forensic science curricula, internships, and mentoring relationships, and explore laboratory directors' perspectives on supporting employee mental health, including organizational barriers, resource limitations, and workplace stigma. The session will conclude with a panel discussion featuring forensic science leaders who will share practical approaches for implementing wellness initiatives, fostering psychologically healthy workplaces, and creating a culture that supports resilience, help-seeking, and professional well-being across the forensic sciences. Overall, this session will highlight how individual experiences, education and training, workplace culture, and leadership practices intersect to shape mental health and resilience throughout the forensic science profession.

Learning Objectives: This workshop examines the individual, educational, and organizational factors that influence work-related stress and vicarious trauma among forensic science professionals. Presentations will explore how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) may shape career selection, stress responses, and vulnerability to trauma exposure within forensic science settings. Additional sessions will examine gender differences in work-related stress, strategies for building resilience through forensic science education, training, and mentorship, and the role of laboratory leadership in supporting employee well-being. Through empirical research findings, practitioner perspectives, and panel discussion, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how personal histories, workplace culture, and organizational support systems intersect to influence mental health and resilience across the forensic science profession.

Impact Statement: This workshop will impact the forensic science community by providing evidence-based insights into the factors that contribute to work-related stress, vicarious trauma, and resilience across the profession. Findings from recent research will highlight the influence of ACEs on occupational stress and trauma, examine gender differences in the experience of work-related stress, and identify barriers that laboratory directors face when implementing wellness initiatives and supporting employee mental health. By bringing together researchers, educators, laboratory leaders, and practitioners, this session will identify strategies for creating trauma-informed organizations, integrating resilience-building into forensic science education and training, and reducing stigma surrounding mental health and help-seeking within the forensic science community.

Target Audience: All Disciplines
Knowledge Level: Basic