NCJ Number
188482
Date Published
2002
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This chapter profiles the mental and emotional work experiences of the correctional officer, as it notes the fears, apprehensions, and personal misgivings not usually associated with those in the profession.
Abstract
Correctional officers are locked inside a cellblock where they are outnumbered by inmates with a variety of problem behaviors; some are violent. The officers' only weapons are wits, training, experience, and the alarm on their waists. When this alarm is triggered, other officers come running, and more often than not it means inmates are fist-fighting or throwing feces or food. For sure, they are yelling, swearing, and refusing to lock down. The officer's life could be in danger. The officer is enraged and scared, and the adrenaline is pumping into the body. All-out violence is rare, however; and knowing this, an officer attempts to provide routine and calmness to his/her duties. The officer supervises the feedings, keeping track of each meal tray, because almost anything can be fashioned into a weapon. Usually, the closest an officer comes to using force is an unequivocal command or a firm grip on an elbow. As a rule, officers are unarmed. Supervisors have a can of pepper spray. The greatest tools, officers say, are composure and communication. Officers who like their jobs get to know the inmates, respond to their legitimate needs, and provide appropriate guidance. Officers believe that jail policies, rules, regulations, and clear structure are their best allies in defining for both the inmates and officers what is expected and will be enforced.