NCJ Number
214415
Journal
Prison Journal Volume: 86 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 164-181
Date Published
June 2006
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This study obtained reports on stress levels experienced by a sample of 329 correctional supervisors (ranks of lieutenant and higher) in 1 State and examined links between stress levels and social support, job satisfaction, and control issues.
Abstract
The findings indicate that this sample of correctional supervisors experienced lower stress levels than those reported by a sample of correctional officers in a previous study. Based on previous research, the author offers the following recommendations for reducing stress among both correctional supervisors and correctional officers: increase job satisfaction by revising schedules and improving training opportunities; improve communication with and responses from superiors; provide facilities and programs for physical fitness where personnel can relieve stress and have informal social contact with coworkers; and provide opportunities for staff to have input that influences policies and structures that affect job tasks and working conditions. The stressors most often mentioned by the correctional supervisors were related to organizational issues, including pay and benefits, paperwork, and poor communication. Stress levels did not vary in relation to gender, race, education level, or institution, suggesting that the lower stress levels were related to job characteristics. Findings show that the low levels of stress were associated with high levels of social support, job satisfaction, and a sense of personal control over the work environment. The instruments used to measure stress, job satisfaction, social support, and locus of control were the Perceived Stress Scale, the Job Satisfaction Survey, the Work Locus of Control Scale, and a modified version of the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List. 2 tables and 44 references