Abstract
This chapter explores the concept of mental resilience among forensic social professionals. It highlights the unique challenges they face, such as experiencing incidents, tensions during client interactions and exposure to emotionally demanding narratives. These challenges can lead to symptoms like PTSD, burnout or secondary traumatization when the mental burden exceeds their capacity. The chapter identifies risk and protective factors influencing mental resilience at both personal and organizational levels. Recommendations are provided to enhance resilience, including clear policies on prevention and aftercare, promoting an open culture and offering regular training. The chapter underscores the importance of further research to better understand and support the mental resilience of forensic social professionals..
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Forensic Social Work |
| Subtitle of host publication | Supporting Desistance |
| Editors | Vivienne de Vogel, Nienke Verstegen, Anne Koppe |
| Publisher | Taylor and Francis |
| Pages | 89-101 |
| Number of pages | 13 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781040443200 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781032992549 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 11 Nov 2025 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2026 selection and editorial matter, Jacqueline Bosker, Anneke Menger and Vivienne de Vogel; individual chapters, the contributors.