NCJ Number
89614
Date Published
Unknown
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This survey examined the geographic mobility and career advancement of female Federal Prison System (FPS) employees, respondents' FPS career histories and demographic characteristics, attitudes toward being moved, and beliefs about the ability of female employees to function well.
Abstract
A 25 percent sample of staff at each participating institution was randomly selected. The typical age and education level of males and females did not differ statistically; however, males were more likely to be married. Both the promotion rate and GS level were equivalent for males and females. Regarding attitude scale responses, females were more likely to believe that (1) women's chances for promotion are low at various types of facilities, (2) women can be effective in a variety of institutional positions typically occupied by men, and (3) women can perform effectively in various types of correctional institutions. Male and female respondents had equal confidence that women can work effectively in a variety of institutional jobs typically performed by women. Respondents willing to move were likely to be young, male, single, and graduates of at least a 4-year college program. Age was the strongest predictor of mobility, with sex, marital status, and education being less potent. Promotion rate was found to depend on FPS experience and educational level. The findings suggest that pessimism about career advancement among women could be relieved by publicizing the actual male and female promotion rates, which the data show do not differ. Tabular data are included. (Author summary modified)