NCJ Number
138190
Date Published
1991
Length
101 pages
Annotation
The California Department of Corrections (CDC) directed this chaplain staffing study to assess inmate faith preferences, to establish parity among faith groups for chaplain staffing, and to determine appropriate staffing levels based on workload.
Abstract
The study addressed these requirements by approaching them in several tracks. The inmate study track validated faith preferences. The chaplain study track, in conjunction with the inmate study, provided a method for initiating parity in chaplain staffing by recognizing inmate needs, faith practice requirements, and minimum staffing. The management and comparative study tracks outlined parameters in which staffing standards should be set. It was determined that CDC has not kept pace with the rest of the country in using the chaplaincy as an institutional tool to impact inmate behavior. Further, no evaluation of the chaplaincy's ability to reduce violence and potentially affect recidivism rates has occurred. Other correctional agencies that value the benefits of chaplaincy provider larger staffs for the function. Associate or chief deputy wardens currently manage chaplain services in each CDC institution. Role conflict, lack of goal clarity about program focus, and lack of a mission for the chaplaincy indicate the need for direct supervision of the chaplain program. Issues related to training needs and conflict with correctional officers highlight the need for an institutional chaplain program advocate. Reducing the amount of time chaplains spend negotiating their work will permit more time to be spent on service delivery. Specific recommendations are offered to improve chaplain services in CDC facilities. Appendixes provide additional study information and forms associated with the chaplain staffing study. References, tables, and graphs