Explain the Correctional Officer subculture. How
does this subculture create ethical issues for correctional officers?
We'll be glad to critique your answer. This site may help you.
http://jrc.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/11/2/155
The Correctional Officer subculture refers to a unique set of beliefs, attitudes, values, and behaviors that are developed and shared among correctional officers within a specific correctional facility or system. It is important to note that subcultures can vary across institutions, and not all correctional officers subscribe to the same set of subcultural norms.
The creation of a subculture among correctional officers is a natural sociological phenomenon that occurs when individuals in similar roles are repeatedly exposed to the same work environment, experiences, and pressures. Correctional officers often face high-stress situations, such as handling dangerous or violent individuals, managing conflicts among inmates, enforcing rules within the facility, and dealing with the emotional toll of working in a correctional setting. As a result, they may develop a shared sense of identity and adopt coping mechanisms, norms, and values that differ from those in mainstream society.
The Correctional Officer subculture can create ethical issues for correctional officers in several ways:
1. Ingroup/Outgroup dynamics: The subculture may foster an "us versus them" mentality, where officers perceive themselves as separate from, and superior to, both inmates and other law enforcement professionals. This can lead to a dehumanization of inmates and a disregard for their rights, resulting in unethical treatment, abuse, or neglect.
2. Code of silence: The subculture often emphasizes loyalty and solidarity among officers. This can lead to a "code of silence," where officers refrain from reporting or intervening in misconduct by their peers. This lack of accountability can result in unethical behavior going unchecked, including excessive use of force, corruption, or favoritism.
3. Institutionalization mindset: Over time, correctional officers may become acclimated to the unique environment and challenges of working within correctional facilities. This can lead to a mindset that prioritizes security and control above all else, possibly compromising the ethical treatment and rehabilitation of inmates.
4. Ethical dilemmas: Correctional officers may face dilemmas that challenge their personal values and ethical standards. They may be torn between institutional policies, their duty to maintain safety and order, and the desire to treat inmates with dignity and respect. These conflicting priorities can create ethical dilemmas and moral distress for officers.
Addressing the ethical issues within the Correctional Officer subculture requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes the implementation of comprehensive training programs that emphasize ethical decision-making, promoting a culture of accountability, encouraging open communication, providing support and resources for officers' emotional well-being, and establishing strong oversight mechanisms to prevent misconduct. Additionally, efforts should be made to improve transparency, external oversight, and cooperation between correctional officers and other criminal justice professionals to reduce the negative impact of the subculture on ethical conduct.