Jury duty and posttraumatic stress disorder

Research on jurors and juror symptomatology has been conducted for many years; however, existing research has primarily been completed in the United States. What little research was conducted in Canada is now several years ago. Further, there is sufficient anecdotal evidence to suggest PTSD can and does occur as a result of serving jury duty. As such, this research sought to explore the relationship between jury duty participation and PTSD symptomology, as described by participants. This research is qualitative and involved two stages. First, participants (n=14) were asked to complete an online demographic survey that included a self-report measure for PTSD, the PCL-5. Second, participants (n=12) were invited to complete a one-two hour interview. Findings from the interviews were analyzed via thematic analysis. This research found three participants who met the criteria for probable PTSD (when using a cut-off score of 32). Overall, jurors in Canada echo previous research that states sources of symptoms relate to viewing disturbing images, deliberations, sequestering, and fear of making a mistake. New insight indicates fear associated with retaliation may be a major contributing factor for symptomology. Further, jurors whose life experiences relate to the trial type may be a contributing factor for symptomology. Policy and practice recommendations include improving information for jurors before they begin their service and providing more consistent follow-up support for jurors. Research should continue to explore the relationship between jurors and symptomology.