Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

Deborah Laufersweiler-Dwyer

Abstract

AbstractCorrection officers experience a high level of trauma in their daily job functions and often suffer from mental health disorders. Leaders of correctional organizations have begun to create internal wellness programs to assist correction officers manage the stress they endure, but the effectiveness of these programs on alleviating employee stress is unknown. The purpose of the present research was to explore the utilization and implementation of wellness programs on correction officer stress. A phenomenological qualitative approach was used. Data was collected from 13 correctional employees who have all experienced stress while working as a correction officer. Each of these employees have utilized the wellness program. Participants completed anonymous surveys that included open-ended questions on occupational stress, how the wellness program was used, and if it was beneficial to addressing their stress. The data from the surveys was analyzed. Themes and codes were identified. Once these themes and codes were placed in categories, they help addressed the research questions. The findings indicate that the wellness program is beneficial to addressing the stress of correction officers but can be improved. The study also revealed the importance of having policies and procedures in place to help guide not only correction officers but their supervisors on how to properly use and access the wellness program. Improving usage of and access to such programs may improve correction officers’ mental and physical health and assist them in living healthier and more productive lives both on and off their jobs. This will assist in communicating with the prisoners which can lead to them being a positive example that can improve their lives once released from prison.

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