Gendered Bars: How Collective Efficacy is Experienced Differently Among Correctional Staff

• In Event: The Role of Gender in Correctional Settings

Abstract

The role of gender in correctional employment is complex. According to gendered institutions theory, corrections is a field that is structured to privilege masculine traits. Therefore, an employee’s gender may impact how they experience correctional work. Collective efficacy theory has been proven to impact work outcomes in a variety of contexts. The goal of this study is to better understand the male and female correctional staff experience, particularly in terms of collective efficacy. This study uses qualitative and quantitative analysis to explore survey responses of correctional staff in a Mid-Atlantic state. Quantitative findings show male correctional staff benefit from collective efficacy, being less likely to perceive work negatively, while their female counterparts do not. Qualitative results indicate three different ways correctional staff perceive gender’s role on-the-job which contribute to sex-based differences in how elements of collective efficacy are experienced by correctional staff. Suggestions for future research and translational implications are also discussed.

Author

• TaLisa J. Carter, University of Delaware