Prison Guard Experiences of Moral Distress and Trauma-Informed Organizational Practices

• In Event: Use of Force & Troubled Correctional Officers

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to explore moral distress, organizational practices to reduce traumatic stress, and the most pertinent related information for individuals working in prison and jail settings (PPJ). This mixed-method study enlisted Canadian PPJs for an online questionnaire including a measure of moral distress, a trauma-informed organizational assessment, and an open text box to share pertinent information. Two hypotheses were tested: 1. Moral distress will be observed among PPJs; 2. Actions to alleviate traumatic stress will correlate with lower moral distress levels. The qualitative data were inductively coded to describe PPJ insights. Results indicate a subset of prison guards experience high moral distress and those from groups facing discrimination are potentially at higher risk. The connection between moral distress and trauma-informed organizational practices deserves further exploration. Considering the risks moral distress is shown to pose to other professional groups, the advantages of trauma-informed initiatives to diminish harm and discrimination in correctional facilities, and the substantial distress a significant portion of guards endure, future research should focus on effective systemic strategies to address moral distress.

Author

• Denise Michelle Brend, Université Laval