NCJ Number
76249
Date Published
1979
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The recruitment and training of Japanese prison officers are discussed.
Abstract
Because of better working conditions and more attractive salaries, the popularity of this profession has been increasing. Male candidates must pass the Prison Officers' Examinations before employment, but women may be appointed without having taken the examinations since only 1 in every 70 officers is female. Officers work full-time, 48 hours per week. They must undergo a 6-month probationary period; and during the first year of employment, they must participate in the training program of the Training Institute for Correctional Personnel. The institute teaches techniques of prisoner treatment, basic criminal law, criminal policy, and social sciences. Discipline and guard duty techniques are also included in the program. After 2 years of employment, prison officers are encouraged to undergo advanced training at the institute in order to be considered for supervisory positions. Although most recruits hope to become involved in the treatment of prisoners, many become disillusioned because of the guard duties that are also part of the job. The problem could be partly solved if schools and universities were to give more attention to the area of corrections and inform potential candidates of the types of duties prison officers are expected to perform. An enhanced public information program could also aid recruitment efforts.