Prison Guards in Private

• NCJ Number: 86834
• Journal: Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 25 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1983) Pages: 1-17
• Author(s): T C Willet
• Date Published: 1983
• Length: 17 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: Canada

Annotation

This Canadian study of correctional guards found power at this level to divert or resist change policies, particularly those that might emerge from training.

Abstract

This 1973 study was designed as a pilot project for more extensive research into the world view of correctional guards during their first year's service, including the induction course, any preceding on-the-job training, and the postgraduation experience in the prisons. A secondary aim was to examine the fit between the objectives of the Staff College, which trains correctional guards, and those perceived by the trainees. The study used participant observation and interviews. Two theoretical models were developed for analyzing the data: one for a penal system appropriate to Canada and the other for a correctional officer to work within it. The essentials of the model for the penal system were (1) that the organization objectives be clear and consistent with societal values; (2) that the objectives be actualized throughout the system; (3) that selection, training, and operations be integrated and geared to objectives; and (4) that there be unanimity in the system about the objectives. The officer model postulated that he/she (1) embody the objectives of the organization, (2) have faced substantial challenges and survived them without loss of self-esteem, (3) be mature, (4) be able to withstand protracted stress, and (5) be honest and trusted by those with whom he/she works. Data examined under the penal system model showed that selection, training, and operations were not integrated and geared toward achieving specific objectives. Under the correctional guard model, it was found that selection was not geared to any model and neither training nor operational experience produced the awareness of objectives that induces high morale. The correctional guard union rarely played a constructive role, and peer pressure tended to resist any but the most self-centered changes. Twenty-four references are listed.