The Experience of Jurors: Reducing Stress and Enhancing Satisfaction

Jury duty is a task that can be both challenging and rewarding. While jury duty at times can be boring, confusing, or traumatizing, it can also be a fulfilling endeavor for jurors. This chapter reviews the research regarding how jury duty both positively and negatively affects jurors' wellbeing, including the causes and symptoms of stress and dissatisfaction. The chapter will also review the various ways in which courts have attempted to promote wellbeing and satisfaction among jurors; for instance, some courts have provided counseling for jurors who experienced trials involving highly violent crimes, and other courts have adopted changes designed to make jury duty more engaging, comfortable, and convenient. It is important to study and address the issues that negatively affect jurors and generally to encourage positive perceptions of jury duty among citizens. Such steps will promote future jury participation and protect the integrity of the legal system.