NCJ Number
215420
Journal
Prison Journal Volume: 86 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2006 Pages: 327-343
Date Published
September 2006
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study assessed gender-related differences in correctional officers' self-reported aggressive responses to inmate challenges.
Abstract
The study found no differences in correctional officers' aggressive responses to inmate challenges according to an officer's gender. Only three variables--job title, height, and having minor children--predicted any difference in officers' aggressive responses. Higher ranking officers were less likely to report aggressive responses in some scenarios presented compared to lower ranking officers. Officers with above-average height were more likely to be aggressive in some scenarios than shorter officers, and respondents who had minor children were less likely to report an aggressive response to one scenario. Although female correctional officers reported a higher level of job-related stress than did male officers, higher job stress was not related to the likelihood of aggressive responses to inmates. The study used a survey methodology with a sample of uniformed security staff employed at six medium-security prisons in Kentucky. Of 1,100 surveys distributed, 250 usable surveys were returned. This sample reflected the gender and racial characteristics of the State's correctional staff in general. The survey assessed self-reported aggressive responses to brief descriptions of 11 types of inmate encounters. Respondents were asked to "indicate what you believe would be your most likely response," to each scenario. Choices were to take no action; reason with the inmate, detain the inmate, and request help; take inmate to your supervisor; and threaten the inmate. Respondents also provided information on gender, race, marital status, children and their ages, age, height, and education. Information was also collected on job-related variables. 2 tables and 35 references