Crime scene investigators: exploring the reasons and impact of career longevity and gender diversity in forensic science

Abstract

Career longevity among crime scene investigators (CSIs) is a topic for which there has been little research. This is surprising given the increased popularity of this profession as well as forensic science in general. Understanding the profession and the career dynamics of those who serve as CSIs can provide valuable insight which can be used to improve efficiency and effectiveness on the job and promote lengthy and successful careers. This study examines the career longevity of female versus male crime scene investigators and identifies the key reasons behind early departures from the field. The study looks at career inspirations, expectations, and professional pathways for both male and female forensic science students and those already working as career CSIs. Two similar surveys were sent out, one to currently working, and retired crime scene investigators and/or death scene investigators, and one to forensic science students at the University of Central Oklahoma. The sample pool included 45 survey responses from current and former professionals in the field, and 57 responses from forensic science students. From the surveys that were received, we discovered that female crime scene investigators are more likely to leave the profession early than their male counterparts. We identified the various reasons why this was so and formulated suggestions for addressing these issues. We also discovered that the main incentive for students to choose forensic science was because they thought it was an interesting career and they wanted to serve the community in a unique manner, however some apparently did not think beyond this to the demands of the job and the effect it would have on lifestyle and family. From this result, we concluded female CSIs tend to quit the profession early more than their male counterparts and that there are articulable reasons which could be better addressed.