Guardians at Risk: Understanding South Korean Probation Officers' Victimization Through Routine Activity Theory

• In Event: Officer-Client Dynamics and Relationship Quality

Abstract

Correctional work can be an extremely dangerous occupation, as officers are required to supervise a potentially hazardous population. While much of the literature on correctional officers' victimization has focused on staff working in prisons and jails, little is known about the experiences of officers who supervise individuals on probation. This study examines the risk of victimization among a large sample of South Korean probation officers (N=540) through the lens of Routine Activity Theory (RAT). A significant portion of officers (29.4%) reported experiencing non-physical assaults, including insults, threats, or harassment. Additionally, 4.6% reported being physically assaulted at least once while supervising an individual on probation. Preliminary findings suggest that specific work-related routines (e.g., supervising juveniles or individuals with substance use disorders) may predict a higher risk of victimization. Moreover, demographic characteristics (e.g., age, education) and the quality of communication with senior officers were significant factors. These findings will be discussed in terms of their policy implications for the safety and well-being of probation officers and relevance for future research on probation work.

Authors

• Bryce Peterson, Center for Justice Research and Innovation, CNA

• Riccardo Ferraresso, Dongguk University

• Jeseong Cho, Korean Institute of Criminology and Justice (KICJ)

• Mingi Han, Dongguk University