Date of Submission

2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Stephanie Felgoise, PhD, ABPP

First Advisor

Ashley Poole Psy.D., M.S, LPC

Second Advisor

Robert DiTomasso PhD, ABPP

Third Advisor

Micheal Roberts Psy.D,

Abstract

Professionals who provide treatment to individuals who have commuted sexual offenses are routine exposed to traumatic material, placing them at increased risk for both vicarious trauma (VT) and burnout. Despite growing recognition of these occupational hazards, limited research has examined the relationship between VT and burnout within this specialized population. The present study investigated the association between VT and the three dimensions of burnout (i.e. Emotional Exhaustion (EE), Depersonalization (DP), and personal Accomplishment (PA)) among licensed treatment providers working directly with individuals who have commuted sexual offenses. A cross-sectional correlational design was employed with a sample of 107 licensed providers recruited through professional organizations, social media platforms, and professional networks. Participants completed the Vicarious Trauma Scale (VTS), the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS), and a demographic questionnaire.

Spearman’s rho analyses revealed significant positive relationships between VT and EE, ρ (105) = .48, p < .001, and VT and DP, ρ (105) = .38, p < .001. Contrary to expectations, a Pearson correlation demonstrated a weak but significant positive relationship between VT and PA, r (105) = .20, p = .044. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses indicated that a VT significantly contributed additional variance in EE and DP beyond workload, trauma history, and perceived social support. These findings suggest that VT is a meaningful predictor of burnout symptoms among professionals working with individuals who have committed sexual offenses. Implications for clinical training, supervision, organizational support, and provider well-being are discussed. Future research should continue to examine protective factors that may mitigate the impact of VT in this understudied population.

Download

Share

COinS