NCJ Number
99060
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 49 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1985) Pages: 70-74
Date Published
1985
Length
5 pages
Annotation
After critiquing traditional procedures for testing used in selecting correctional guards, this article proposes the measurement of behavioral skills directly associated with job tasks as a tool for selecting correctional guards.
Abstract
The selection of correctional officers (CO's) has traditionally focused on physical attributes, with security considerations foremost (e.g., intimidating physical size). Recent attempts at sophisticated assessment of CO applicants have used global psychological personality psychometrics, but these have been generally unfruitful because the qualities revealed in the testing are not unique to the CO role. A recent trend toward the use of behavioral analysis in personnel selection shows promise. The development of a behaviorally based instrument depends on the identification and description of behavioral skills directly related to the tasks that compose the job. This must be done by employees and supervisors most familiar with the job. Personnel selection is based on assessment of the applicant's existing skills and the potential to acquire needed skills through training. Such an approach permits tailoring personnel selection to the specific situation in which a CO will work. Thirty-one references are listed.