NCJ Number
139595
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 15 Issue: 5 Dated: (June-July 1990) Pages: 1,5-9
Date Published
1992
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Females did not become wardens of men's and coed correctional institutions until the civil rights legislation of the early 1970's. A survey by Corrections Compendium revealed that by July 1990, a total of 53 women wardens, superintendents, or administrators oversaw men's correctional institutions.
Abstract
The same survey found that another eight women were managing facilities confining both male and female inmates. Many of the female wardens have experienced isolation due to being female in a very male system, the stress of being first, almost automatic acceptance of their authority by inmates, and their love of correctional work. They also experienced sexist attitudes and behavior during their correctional careers. Some find that they are not taken quite as seriously as men. However, they agree that three qualities are essential: firmness, fairness, and consistency. They also agree that the most effective means of control is the ability to communicate and to gain trust and respect and that their verbal communication skills have helped them keep order. Nevertheless, structural problems and attitudes hinder women's professional advancement in corrections. Case examples