NCJ Number
99928
Journal
Journal of Probation and Parole Volume: 16 Dated: (Fall 1984/85) Pages: 21-29
Date Published
1985
Length
9 pages
Annotation
A study of 139 probation officers employed by adult probation departments in a southwestern State revealed that officers who perceived themselves to be at a higher level of professionalism generally had less role conflict and more job satisfaction.
Abstract
The sample represented a cross section of probation offices, including metropolitan and smaller urban departments. Self-administered questionnaires assessed subjects' perceptions of their jobs in the context of the court organization, identification as a professional, opinions regarding the presentence investigation, and role conflicts. The probation officers in the sample generally had a high degree of professionalization in their field and a low degree of role conflict or job dissatisfaction. The few items which indicated conflict or dissatisfaction related to excessive caseload sizes and paperwork. Most respondents enjoyed positive relationships with administrators, supervisors, and judicial personnel. On the presentence investigation items, two-thirds disagreed that it was always an objective, impartially prepared document. In addition to the positive correlation between professionalism and job satisfaction, the study found that probation officers who valued the provision of high quality services to probationers had higher levels of job satisfaction. Tables, 26 references, and questionnaire items.