NCJ Number
134848
Journal
American Jails Volume: 5 Issue: 6 Dated: (January-February 1992) Pages: 58-60
Date Published
1992
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The selection and training of prison officers in England and Wales has changed a great deal over the past 5 years, primarily in terms of the design of new tests for evaluating and selecting prison officers.
Abstract
The new tests are intended to identify alertness, vigilance, and observation as well as the ability to process information to solve problems, the ability to communicate ideas and exchange information effectively, and the ability to deal with paperwork accurately and quickly. Although the new tests seem to have been successful, written skills are not tested, and officers sometimes have poor writing skills. Following success in selection tests, candidates have to attend an interview. Once selected, prison officers attend a local prison for a 2-week observation period. The purpose is to allow new recruits to see and experience prison life and speak to prisoners. The officers' initial training course lasts for 9 weeks and is based on solid foundations in security and interpersonal skills. The importance of prison officer-prisoner encounters is reflected in the time allotted to interpersonal skills. Prison officers are taught control and restraint and are encouraged to keep physically fit. The teaching of control focuses on such ideas as legitimate authority, interpersonal skills, and reasonableness. The effectiveness of the training approach used in England and Wales is discussed.