Vulnerability factors that lead to high levels of stress among corrections officers /

Abstract

This research examines the effects of stress on Corrections Officers and more specifically factors that make them vulnerable to stress. This study reviews previous research on this topic and is accompanied by an individual study in which Corrections Officers at Grafton Correctional Institution (State of Ohio facility located in Grafton) were the participants. A total of 128 surveys were distributed to Officers. Miller and Smith Psychologists at Boston University Medical Center designed the survey; it is used to determine if an individual is vulnerable to stress. This survey, together with demographic information such as age, gender, shift, social support, and years of service were examined to determine which Officers are more vulnerable to stress. It was found that approximately 51.7 percent of the respondents were vulnerable to stress. For the most part age, gender, years of service, marital status and relationship with supervisors did not influence an Officer's vulnerability to stress. Of all the demographic information examined, it appears that personality type is the most significant. Surprisingly, it was found that those Officers with Type B (laid back) personalities are more vulnerable to stress than those with Type A (assertive) personalities. In addition to the survey instrument and demographic information, Officers were asked the open-ended question: "What is your strongest source of stress?" The most common answers to this question were "other staff" and "supervisors". This answer is consistent with prior research on the topic of stress among Corrections Officers Each of the twenty survey questions was analyzed to determine which factors are common among Officers in contributing to a higher vulnerability score. The most significant factors attributing to stress pertained to the Officers lifestyle choices and activities outside of work. Many of the Officers indicated that they have a poor diet, smoke, and do not participate in social activities. All of these factors are significant influences on whether or not an individual is vulnerable to stress. This study is valuable because it identifies the factors that make many Corrections Officers more vulnerable to stress than members of the general public. This study may be used in future research studies by students, or Ohio's Department of Rehabilitation and Correction to develop an effective stress management program, or implement policies to reduce this serious problem.