Since the GDPR came into force, the role of the internal DPO (Data Protection Officer) has become central within organizations. Responsible for ensuring compliance with data protection, the internal DPO is often perceived as the guarantor of the confidentiality and security of personal information. However, behind this appearance of mastery and control, lies a more complex reality. In this article, we will venture into the unconscious of the internal DPO in the manner of Freud to explore the hidden dimensions of this profession and understand the psychological impact that results from it.
The internal DPO
an illusion of control The internal DPO often finds himself in a paradoxical position. On the one hand, he is responsible for implementing data protection policies , providing advice and ensuring compliance with regulations. On the other hand, he must deal with organizational constraints, hierarchical pressures and commercial objectives.
This tension between role responsibility and the limits of real influence creates an illusion of control and mastery. To illustrate this, consider the example of a company that collects sensitive data from its customers.
The internal DPO can put in place strict security measures to protect this data, but does not have absolute control over the actions of employees who may inadvertently make mistakes or disclose it.
First Steps to Effectively Start the DPO Role
Taking on the role of Data Protection Officer (DPO) is like becoming the conductor of harmony in data compliance. To kick-start your responsibilities with precision and clarity, here are the essential steps to follow:
- Understanding the Organization’s Data Landscape Start by mapping the types of personal data your organization processes. Identify where it is stored, how it is processed, and who has access to it. This baseline knowledge will guide your compliance strategy.
- Assess Current Compliance Status Conduct a thorough audit of current data protection practices. Evaluate existing policies and procedures to identify compliance gaps. This will help you prioritize areas that require immediate attention.
- Develop Relationships with Key Stakeholders Build alliances across the organization. Communicate regularly with department heads, legal teams, IT departments, and executives. A collaborative approach ensures smoother implementation of data protection measures.
- Develop a Comprehensive Data Protection Strategy Design a strategy that addresses identified gaps and complies with legal requirements, such as GDPR. This should include effective data management guidelines, breach response plans, and ongoing monitoring processes.
- Educate and Inform Staff Raise awareness through training and workshops. Ensure everyone understands their role in protecting personal data and keep them informed of best practices and new regulations.
- Review and Adapt Policies Regularly Stay agile by continually revising policies based on technological advancements and regulatory changes. This proactive approach helps maintain ongoing compliance and mitigate potential risks.
By following these steps, you will establish a solid foundation as a DPO, ensuring that your organization moves forward towards robust data protection and privacy management.
The anxiety of the internal DPO
Between responsibility and guilt (conflict of loyalty) The internal DPO bears too great a psychological burden for the proper execution of his mission. He is aware of the potential consequences of privacy breaches and data violations.
This constant awareness can lead to deep anxiety and latent guilt. Consider an internal DPO working in a healthcare company . They may find themselves faced with complex ethical dilemmas, such as the need to reconcile access to medical data for the proper functioning of care with the need to protect patient privacy.
These situations raise difficult moral and ethical questions, and the internal DPO may feel torn between his desire to protect personal data and the constraints he faces.
Internal DPO defense mechanisms
Faced with these tensions and anxiety, the internal DPO may develop psychological defense mechanisms to cope with the pressure. He may adopt overcontrol behaviors, seeking to anticipate and control everything to avoid errors and potential violations.
For example, an internal DPO may implement very strict security procedures and impose additional controls to minimize risks. However, this overprotection can also lead to excessive rigidity and a limitation of innovation within the company.
Psychological support and coaching for the internal DPO
To help the internal DPO cope with these psychological and emotional challenges, adequate support is essential. Support can take different forms, including specialized coaching for DPOs.
This type of coaching can help the internal DPO explore their emotions, better understand the psychological mechanisms at play, and develop strategies to manage stress and anxiety. Coaching can also help the internal DPO find a balance between the demands of the job and their mental and emotional health.
At My Data Solution , we understand the importance of psychological support and coaching for the internal DPO. In addition to our technical and compliance solutions, we offer coaching services for internal DPOs.
We offer a safe space to explore the psychological dimensions of the profession, providing tools and techniques to build resilience, manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
The role of the internal DPO is not limited to the implementation of data protection policies and procedures.
It also encompasses deep psychological dimensions that can influence the professional’s mental and emotional health. By recognizing the illusion of control, latent anxiety and defense mechanisms of the internal DPO, we can provide adequate support to these professionals and help them reconcile their data protection mission with their personal well-being.
With My Data Solution, you benefit from comprehensive support that integrates both the technical aspect and the psychological dimensions of the internal DPO profession.
