Veterans Working in Corrections: Does Cumulative Trauma Place Veterans at a Higher Risk for PTSD?

• In Event: Stress and PTSD among Correctional Staff

Abstract

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a common diagnosis among persons who have experienced some traumatic event in their lifetime and those who work in certain professions such as law enforcement firefighters, and the military are at a much higher risk. While much less is known about PTSD among correctional staff, initial examinations reveal that correctional staff are also at a higher risk. Further, many correctional staff also have military experience. Therefore, it is important to understand whether being a veteran and working in corrections places an individual at an even higher risk for PTSD compared to their non-veteran counterparts. The present study uses data from over 800 correctional staff from 13 state adult facilities from a Southern state in an attempt to understand this issue and related research questions such as whether prior military diagnosis of PTSD later negatively affects job performance within corrections. On the other hand, prior military training and experience might better prepare an individual for a stressful and potentially dangerous job. Results are presented and policy implications and recommendations are discussed.

Authors

• Annette Marshall-Robinson, University of Louisville

• Kristin Swartz, University of Louisville