NCJ Number
82707
Editor(s)
J Bird
Date Published
1982
Length
388 pages
Annotation
This self-instructional program for correctional officers teaches professional skills such as inmate counts, discipline control, tool and key control, and body and cell searches. The managerial aspects of the correctional officer's role are also addressed.
Abstract
The program comprises a 5-part study text, including questions, an answer key, and a volume of final tests. Topics include a historical overview of crime and punishment; current corrections philosophies; correctional officers' roles; and legal aspects of corrections, concentrating on prisoners' rights. Sections on inmate supervision present techniques for effectively observing and evaluating them, carrying out disciplinary procedures, handling inmate requests, and preparing reports. The chapters on security procedures discuss principles of security; steps involved in contraband control; strip, frisk, cell, and facility searches; counting procedures; patrol and emergency procedures (riots, hostage situations, fires, and escapes); and inmate transport. The section on special inmates examines inmates' medical and psychological needs and instructs officers in spotting drug and alcohol abusers, identifying potential suicides, and controlling homosexual incidents. Emergency medical procedures for epileptic and diabetic inmates are outlined, as well as symptoms of mental illness among inmates and their appropriate referral. Sample incident reports are included, and quizzes follow each section.