The Effect of Prison Culture on Prison Staff

Research Paper (undergraduate) from the year 2010 in the subject Law - Criminal process, Criminology, Law Enforcement, grade: A-, Ottawa University, course: Qualitative Research Methods, language: English, abstract: A qualitative research study looking at the effects of prison culture on prison staff and possible solutions to perceived problems. By looking at prison management theory, prison culture, and staff culture, this paper provides a comprehensive explanation of the influences within prison relations and how those influences affect prison staff at both the ‘frontline’ and the administrative levels. This is the first research study in Canada to specifically relate the effects of prison culture on prison staff and examine the correctional institution as a workplace environment. Using interviews as the data collection method, this study shows how the unstable and chaotic nature of the prison negatively influences those working within it. This paper hopes to provide concrete solutions to the problems identified. By doing so, the prison as a workplace can be improved which results in increased job performance and job satisfaction and a better institution to live and work in.