Lived Experiences of Selected Crime Data Encoders: A Phenomenological Study

This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of crime data encoders in the Philippine National Police (PNP), specifically non-uniformed personnel (NUP) assigned to investigation sections across different cities and municipalities in Laguna province. These personnel provide administrative, technical, and clerical support by encoding all crime incidents within their area of responsibility, including sensitive and violent cases. The study focused on the psychological, emotional, and work-related challenges they encountered from prolonged indirect exposure to such crime-related information. This study used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Semi-structured interview questions validated by experts were used and grounded with Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Theory, Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS), and the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping (TMSC). This framework addressed existing gaps in the roles of administrative personnel exposed to crime-related information. Data were collected through face-to-face and online interview sessions, and transcribed verbatim. Trustworthiness was ensured through detailed audit trails, reflexivity, and member checking, with an 87% validation rate. The study yielded six superordinate themes: (1) the weight of wounds, (2) the weight of indirect trauma and fear, (3) burden of racing against time, (4) pulled into yesterday’s task, (5) the weight of continuous duty, (6) finding relief despite challenges. Findings revealed emotional and psychological challenges from indirect trauma exposure to crime-related details, such as fear, shock, annoyance, sleep disturbance, and empathy towards victims. Despite these challenges, encoders revealed coping strategies such as breathing techniques, spiritual practices, positive thinking, and gradual adaptation. The study recommends strengthening the existing mental health and wellness programs for these personnel exposed to secondary trauma.