Perceptions of the Workplace and Corruption of Correctional Officer Authority

• In Event: Burnout, Turnover, Corruption, and Willingness to Report Wrong-doing Among Correctional Staff

Abstract

Empirical research has demonstrated that the manner in which correctional officers perceive their work environment is associated with various negative work-related outcomes. These include: increased job stress, decreased levels of organizational commitment, counterproductive workplace behaviors, absenteeism, and more. The impact of correctional officers perceptions of the work environment on one negative work related outcome, inmate corruption of correctional officer’s authority, has yet to be explored. The current research will address this gap in the literature by exploring the extent to which negative perceptions of the workplace – including a perceived lack of support by the administration and judgments regarding fairness and transparency in the promotional process – influence correctional officers to allow their authority to be corrupted by the inmate population. Primary data from a sample of correctional officers will be used to address the research question. Findings will be discussed in terms of implications for policy and practice.

Authors

• Katherine Ginsburg Kempany, Arizona State University

• John Hepburn, Arizona State University

• Marie L. Griffin, Arizona State University