Prevalence and severity of trauma- and stressor-related symptoms among jurors: A review

Abstract

Background Jury duty is a compulsory, yet stressful, experience. Experts have argued that some jurors may experience trauma-related symptoms (e.g., intrusive thoughts, avoidance, hyperarousal, anhedonia, depression). Understanding how jury duty affects mental health has significant socio-legal implications. This manuscript presents a review of the literature examining the prevalence and severity of trauma-related symptoms stemming from jury duty. Method A systematic search for articles was carried out using PsychInfo, ProQuest Dissertations, PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and HeinOnline. Inclusion criteria were: 1) reported original research; 2) reported a mental health outcome in former jurors. Data were extracted and summarized using a standard form. Results Eighteen studies were reviewed. Trauma-related symptoms were found in as many as 50% of jurors, which persisted for months in a minority of individuals. Factors related to deliberations, trial complexity, and graphic evidence were identified as consistent sources of stress. Female gender and history of prior trauma was associated with post-trial pathology. Conclusion A minority of jurors may be at increased risk for psychopathology as a result of their service, especially in cases involving violent crime. However, methodological limitations found across studies highlight the need for caution in this interpretation and for further empirical research.