Survey: Stressors and Motivators in Working with Adults Who Have Sexually Abused


While many studies focus on the vicarious trauma experienced by professionals working with adults who have sexually abused, limited attention has been given to other significant occupational stressors. This includes workplace environmental factors and potential moral injury resulting from counter-therapeutic settings. Additionally, there is a notable gap in understanding motivational factors—those things that make our work rewarding and even bring us joy—that sustain professionals in this challenging field.

This survey aims to address these research gaps by:

  1. Identifying and analyzing a broader spectrum of occupational stressors in the field beyond vicarious trauma.
  2. Explore the sources of professional motivation, resilience, and job satisfaction in this field.
  3. Providing insights into both the challenges and rewarding aspects of working with adults who sexually offend.

Your participation will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the professional experience in this field, potentially informing improved support systems and workplace practices.

We appreciate your valuable input in this survey.

Stressors and Motivators in Working with Adults Who Have Sexually Abused

Demographic Information

Do you work with adults who have sexually harmed others?
How many years have you been practicing in the field?
Which category below includes your age?
What is your primary work setting?
Which of the following best describes your location of practice?
How many colleagues do you currently work with directly in your organization?
Gender Identity (select all that apply)

Part 1: Stressors

In your current role, what are the most significant stressors you face? Please select up to three that most impact you.

Part 2: Motivators

What aspects of your work contribute most to your professional engagement and satisfaction? Please select up to three factors that are most significant for you.

Thank you for your interest in participating in this survey. According to your response, we have determined that you do not meet the specific professional criteria for this survey.

This survey is designed exclusively for professionals who work directly with adult who have sexually offended. Your current professional role falls outside the targeted demographic for this particular study.

We appreciate your time and willingness to engage with our research. While you are not eligible for this specific survey, we value your professional contributions and may have future opportunities that align more closely with your professional experience.