NCJ Number
228434
Date Published
June 2009
Length
95 pages
Annotation
This report presents the methodology and findings of a study of official misconduct in Queensland (Australia) correctional institutions, with a focus on custodial correctional officers (CCOs).
Abstract
A 2007 survey of 413 CCOs (25.7 percent of all CCOs) found that there have been some positive changes since a similar survey was conducted in 2001. Both surveys measured CCO's perceptions of the extent of misconduct and its causes, as well as the work environment of prisons. In the 2007 survey, CCOs believed that most types of misconduct occurred less frequently than in 2001. They also believed that misconduct was more likely to be detected; however, there was a significant increase in the willingness of officers to justify occasions of misconduct. Results also highlighted a number of areas for improvement; for example, CCOs were concerned about their harsh working environment and the general public's lack of understanding of the CCOs' role. Officers also believed that promotional decisions were often made on the basis of favoritism. There were some enduring issues between management and CCOs, including a perceived lack of protection from management for officers who reported suspected misconduct, as well as officers' dissatisfaction with the recognition and reward they received from senior staff and management for good job performance. In both the 2001 and 2007 surveys, CCOs were asked about the perceived frequency of misconduct, the seriousness of particular instances of misconduct, the relevance of training offered, the working environment, general perceptions of management, general attitudes toward misconduct, and job satisfaction. Extensive tables and figures, 47 references, and appended survey items and responses