NCJ Number
158878
Journal
Keeper's Voice Volume: 16 Issue: 3 Dated: (Summer 1995) Pages: 7-8
Date Published
1995
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article examines the extent of research into the prevalence, causes, and dynamics of correctional officer suicides and suggests ways to improve knowledge in this area.
Abstract
In a literature review, the author found that beyond an occasional mention, often as part of a conglomerate analysis of suicides among law enforcement officers in general, there has been no work specifically on correctional officer suicide. In contrast, there is a considerable literature on inmate suicide. Over the past year, the author spoke to representatives of correctional departments and prison services in States, counties, and cities in the United States, as well as in several other countries. The consensus was that correctional officer suicide is a significant problem generally but is not a problem in the jurisdictions of those interviewed. It was also found that although the topic of inmate suicide is usually included in the training programs of larger correctional departments in the United States, few departments have units on officer suicide. Three things must be done to rectify the imbalance of knowledge on correctional officer suicide. First, research must focus on the topic; second, training programs must be established to handle all of an officer's confrontations with death, including deaths from nonsuicidal causes. This involves structuring opportunities to grieve over an extended period. Third, there must be a widespread institution of training in suicide prevention, focusing on correctional officers as well as inmates. Such training must encompass related topics such as depression, alcohol abuse, and drug abuse. 6 references