Role of interpersonal skills on child sexual exploitation investigators' distress: Theoretical reflection

The potentially traumatizing nature of the work of researchers into sexual and physical exploitation of children (RSPEC) makes them vulnerable to developing symptoms of psychological distress. Most studies have emphasized the importance of support measures and the use of positive adaptation strategies to promote researcher welfare. Certain interpersonal skills may also play a protective role in an emotionally charged context, as has been demonstrated among other types of intervenors, who are exposed to stress and vulnerable patients. Among these skills, mentalization, the ability to understand one's own mental state and that of others with whom they are relating, could be crucial for these intervenors, given the beneficial effects on psychological well-being. Considering that these researchers are in constant contact with potentially traumatic stories and images, that they continually interact with distressed people, and that they are exposed to different stressors, mentalization could help them to better manage their working contexts. This article proposes an investigation of the stressors that are specific to RSPEC work, their impact on psychological distress and protective factors for psychological welfare. A theoretical model will be presented identifying mentalization as an interpersonal skill that could play a role in RSPEC welfare. Potential implications of mentalization for training and professional practice will be discussed.