An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Social Support and Self-Disclosure Among Dentists Volunteering in Forensic Identification: Looking Back After 30 Years

Volunteer recovery workers who perform forensic identification work face significant psychological challenges, such as exposure to human remains and the experience of posttraumatic stress, yet the long-term role of social support in their adaptation remains understudied. This study used interpretative phenomenological analysis to explore the lived experiences of self-disclosure and social support among dentists who identified human remains following the 1993 Branch Davidian tragedy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 of the original volunteer dentists approximately 30 years after the event. Thematic analysis revealed that ambiguous confidentiality instructions from authorities created confusion and influenced initial disclosure patterns; spousal support was pivotal, especially with a shared professional background; instrumental, network, and emotional collegial support offered valuable camaraderie; and self-disclosure, even decades later, yielded positive outcomes with minimal adverse effects, including stronger relationships and well-being. These findings highlighted the need for clear confidentiality protocols, underscored the distinct, complementary roles of spousal and collegial support, and identified shared experience with a confidant as a critical factor in facilitating effective, long-term adaptation. Training for rescue and recovery workers should emphasize how to discuss experiences with others and recognize commonalities that foster support and resilience.