Emotions in Corrections--Myth or Reality?

• NCJ Number: 217322
• Journal: Acta Criminologica Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Dated: 2004 Pages: 66-77
• Author(s): W. Coetzee
• Date Published: 2004
• Length: 12 pages
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: South Africa
• Note: To access the full text PDF: 1) select the provided PDF link; 2) from the Acta Criminologica Web site, select "Table of Contents"; 3) select the corresponding Volume and Issue (see the NCJRS abstract record for the exact Volume and Issue); 4) scroll the Table of Contents to the exact article; and 5) click on the "full text" icon. Downloaded February 12, 2007

Annotation

This article examines the role of emotional intelligence in the correctional environment in South Africa.

Abstract

The main argument is that it is not only appropriate and desirable, but necessary, for those working within the correctional environment to be more aware of and place more emphasis on emotions, particularly compassion. The author offers several suggestions for how to manage emotions in a correctional setting, which include the harnessing of abilities of five key domains: self-awareness, emotional maturity, self-motivation, empathetic understanding, and quality communication. It is recommended that the following topics form an integral part of correctional officer training in South Africa: self-awareness, decision-making, managing feelings, self-concept, handling stress, communication, group dynamics, and conflict resolution. The author asserts that training in emotional intelligence is just as important as job duty training for corrections officers. Research has continually linked emotional intelligence with career success. Such emotional intelligence is perhaps most important in the stressful correctional environment where corrections officers must work with the worst social outcasts in an inherently negative environment. The particular stressors of corrections officers working in South African prisons are enumerated, which include overcrowding, problems with staff recruitment and retention, the inability to find suitable employment for inmates, and a lack of inmate programming. In light of the many challenges facing corrections officers, the author posits that emotional intelligence is a key characteristic of a successful and well-adjusted corrections officer. The meaning of emotional intelligence is offered through a series of examples of how those with emotional strength have overcome great hardships, such as Nazi concentration camps and the terrorist attacks of September 11th. Bibliography