What are the benefits of peer support programs for counterterrorism workers exposed to traumatic material?

Vicarious Trauma in Counterterrorism Practitioners

So what?

Research shows that peer support programs can help lessen the harmful impacts of the exposure to violence and traumatic materials. But more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of these programs, as well as best practices for implementing them.

Project Summary

This study will conduct a systematic review of the literature on peer support programs that exist for law enforcement and the counterterrorism workforce to understand their effectiveness for working professionals.

Purpose/Objectives

The project will evaluate the existing evidence on peer support programs and identify best practices, then apply those to assess a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) use case. More specifically, the outcome from this effort will inform DHS stakeholders on the functions and potential benefits of peer support programs for law enforcement and similar populations, and how to best implement a full-scale evaluation of a peer support program.

Method

Researchers will use the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist to guide the development and execution of the literature review. Additionally, the research team will regularly discuss fact-based training components of a DHS peer support program with relevant stakeholders involved in the program, ensuring their efforts are mission relevant.

Outputs and Impact

• Systematic literature review
• Recommendations for future needs

	Joseph Young, Ph.D. American University Professor Department of Law, Justice, & Criminology Expertise: Cross-national causes and consequences of political violence
	Daisy Muibu, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Security Studies Expertise: Counterterrorism and criminal justice reform
	Susanna Campbell, Ph.D. American University Associate Professor at the School of International Service Fellow, Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars Expertise: Interactions between international and domestic actors, extensive field work in conflict-affected counties