Affiliation:
1. Department of Psychological Medicine, King’s College London, Weston Education Centre , London SE5 9RJ , UK
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Whilst the wellbeing of law enforcement personnel has been widely researched, border security personnel as a discrete group appear to be far less discussed, despite their roles frequently exposing them to potentially traumatic and challenging events such as contact with criminals or witnessing personal tragedies due to trafficking or smuggling.
Aims
This scoping review aimed to explore existing literature to better understand the mental health of border security personnel and the factors affecting their wellbeing.
Methods
Four electronic databases and grey literature were systematically searched for studies relevant to the review’s aims. Following the extraction of relevant data from each study, thematic analysis was used to synthesize findings.
Results
Thirteen studies included relevant data and were included in the review, identifying stressors including poor management; fatigue; negative public attitudes; inadequate staffing levels, resources, and training; poor opportunities for promotion; low pay; work overload; dangerous working environments; and work-related moral dilemmas.
Conclusions
The review found that there has been little academic attention paid to border security personnel as a specific branch of law enforcement. Many of the stressors identified in this review are those also reported by law enforcement generally, although negative attitudes from the public and exposure to moral dilemmas appear to be more relevant for border security staff. Directly addressing work-related stress (e.g. by fostering a supportive organizational culture, addressing mental health stigma, and encouraging help-seeking) may be useful in enhancing the resilience of border security personnel.
Funder
National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit
UK Health Security Agency, King’s College London
University of East Anglia
Department of Health and Social Care
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
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