Predictors of Stress and Conflict in Close Relationships of Correctional Officers

• In Event: Working in Prison

Abstract

Recently, there is a huge media attention on mental health and the safety of correctional officers throughout the States. According to the data released by the Federal Department of Corrections in 2014, burn out rate increases approx. 17% last four years and job satisfaction of the CO went down from 78% to 62%. COs experience higher rates of job stress and burnout that stem from organizational stressors, leading to negative outcomes for not only the CO but the organization as well. Effective interventions could aim at targeting organizational stressors in order to reduce these negative outcomes as well as COs’ job stress and burnout. The purpose of this research is to conduct a survey with part time and full time correctional officers to examine predictors of stress and conflict style in close relationships of correctional officers. This study would focus on stress and conflict experienced both within the "home family" and the "correction family" in order to gauge the underlying reasons of Cos stress. Policy implications based on the finding will be discussed.

Authors

• Juyoung Song, Penn State University

• Salih Hakan Can, Penn State University - Schuylkill