ISSN: 2573-1734
Authors: Pallas E*
The concepts of stress and resilience is viewed from the perspective of a police hostage negotiator as they apply to forensic scientists. Five practical strategies for managing stress and increasing residence are then discussed including mastering one’s mindset, developing tactical grit, practicing learned optimism, maintaining physical health, and seeking social support. Mastering one’s mindset involves cultivating a growth mindset to view challenges as opportunities for improvement. Tactical grit emphasizes the importance of sustained passion and persistence towards long-term goals, despite setbacks. Learned optimism focuses on reframing negative thoughts into positive ones to foster a more optimistic outlook. Maintaining physical health highlights the connection between physical activity and mental well-being, suggesting that regular exercise, adequate rest, and proper nutrition are vital for resilience. Finally, seeking social support underscores the importance of relying on others and seeking professional help when necessary. Forensic scientists in the law enforcement realm can improve their capacity to handle the stressors associated with their work—such as exposure to unsettling evidence, heavy workloads, and the demands of testifying in court—by incorporating these tactics into their work. Resilience, therefore, becomes not only a personal asset but a professional necessity, enabling forensic scientists to sustain their mental and physical health, improve their performance, and achieve long-term career success. This mini-review aims to provide forensic scientists with practical, evidence-based strategies to manage stress effectively and build resilience to achieve personal growth in their demanding field. These stress management techniques assist forensic scientists in transforming stress into strength, enabling them to thrive rather than merely endure in their difficult job.
Keywords: Stress; Resilience; Law Enforcement; Stress Management; Personal Growth
