NCJ Number
206581
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 32 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2004 Pages: 359-370
Editor(s)
Kent B. Joscelyn
Date Published
July 2004
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study examined the sources and consequences of correctional officer stress in South Korea. Indicators previously identified in American studies as related to correctional officer stress were examined, as well as the effects of levels of stress on the South Korean officers’ job satisfaction and health.
Abstract
Due to the crucial roles corrections officers’ play in corrections institutions, past research has documented the prevalence of work-related stress among corrections officers, the problems associated with this stress, and the variety of reasons for the stress. To extend the knowledge of corrections officers’ work environments, this study examined correctional work among officers in South Korea, specifically stress-related issues as outlined in previous studies. In 2002, 300 questionnaires were distributed to corrections officers who were receiving retraining at a Legal Research and Training Institution in South Korea. The study showed that many variables consistent with those found in American studies also explained the work stress, job dissatisfaction, and consequent health problems of South Korean corrections officers. These included variables such as workplace dangerousness, negative interactions with coworkers, frequency of inmate contact, and work overload. However, the study indicates that the unique social and political situation of South Korea has to be considered in assessing correctional stress and job dissatisfaction. This study augments the understanding of the generality of explanations of correctional officer stress across cultures. Appendices A-B and references