NCJ Number
94649
Date Published
1984
Length
197 pages
Annotation
The text provides corrections professionals and students with an understanding of the dynamics and problems that correctional workers face within institutions.
Abstract
A general framework of the diverse behaviors encountered in a correctional setting discusses sources of personality differences, motivation and human behavior, and Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Chapters discuss the attitudes and behaviors that inmates typically display, the dynamics that formulate patterns of inmate behaviors, and fundamentals of inmate supervision. Dealing with special behavior problems, including homosexuality, suicidal tendencies, and emotional disorders is covered. Responsibilities in interacting with members of other ethnic groups and of the opposite sex (inmates or coworkers) are addressed. In addition, one chapter looks at legal aspects of correctional work and describes the rules, created by litigation, that correctional workers must follow when supervising inmates. Discussions on occupational stress in the prison or jail setting and on steps for coping with organizational stress conclude the book. Tables, chapter bibliographies, an index, and an appendix of inmate slang terms are supplied. (Publisher summary modified)