Psychology Student Completes Internship at Monroe County Probation
Rebecca Gunning worked with a probation officer in the Felony DWI Unit, and her tasks included making sure probationers were compliant with their court ordered orders and conditions, administering urine screens for drug and alcohol use, assisting her supervisor with travel permits and violations of probation. She also conducted home visits. Rebeccal says she learned a lot about the internaction of criminal justice system with the field of psychology and mental illness.
Additionally, Rebecca completed research on burnout and stress among individuals who work in the criminal justice field. Her literature review found that law enforcement careers are correlated with burnout and mental health issues, and workers often do not perceive enough support from their employers. She offered research-based recommendations on support resources for law enforcement. In the future, she would like to complete a PhD in forensic psychology.