NCJ Number
153248
Date Published
1995
Length
170 pages
Annotation
This study of prison chaplaincy is based on responses to a survey completed by chaplains of all denominations working in the Federal and State prison systems in New York.
Abstract
The introductory chapter outlines parameters of the survey and the methodology used; it is followed by a brief review of the history of prison chaplaincy. The survey responses focused on the status and reputation of the chaplaincy, both among inmates, correctional personnel, and other religious professionals. The respondents agreed that their work isolates them from the religious mainstream, but they found prison chaplaincy to be professionally satisfying. Some aspects of working on a close and daily basis with inmates are discussed here: the danger of contracting illness, injustices within the system, the impact of working with mentally ill and addicted inmates, the social chasm between chaplains and inmates, the frustration of failing to rehabilitate offenders, and the phenomenon of burnout. The final chapter contains recommendations from chaplains on improving prison chaplaincy in terms of corrections management and relations with inmates, dealing with stress, and conducting future studies. Chapter references, 7 tables, and 3 appendixes