Study Examines Correctional Officer Stress

Conflicts between work and family life were the most significant issues that affect work stress and job satisfaction among correctional officers, a new study by the Correctional Management Institute of Texas at Sam Houston State University found.

In a study of 441 correctional officers from adult prisons in the South, the most significant work-home issues experienced by correctional officers were demands and tensions from work that impact their home life; an incompatibility between the officer’s role at work and at home; and family circumstances that place strain on work experiences.

In addition to work-home conflicts, the perceived dangerousness of the job and family support also weighed heavily on job stress, while supervisor support had a significant impact on job satisfaction. . . . Read more . . .

Building Healthy Relationships with the Press

Kelli Arena, Executive Director, Global Center for Journalism and Democracy

Criminal justice professionals and the media both work to serve the public, but that relationship can often be strained. The Global Center for Journalism and Democracy (GCJD) is collaborating with the College of Criminal Justice to help bridge that gap.

GCJD Speaker Series: Jay "Jaybird" Dobyn, former ATF Undercover Agent

He says his government betrayed him. The same government he risked his life for working as an undercover agent for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

A decorated agent who infiltrated some of the most brutal and violent criminal enterprises, Jay Dobyns was addicted to the adrenaline rush. But his last undercover job was nearly his undoing.

After infiltrating the notorious Hells Angels, the mission and his identity were exposed putting not only him , but his wife and children at risk.

A hit list with his name on it was reportedly distributed through the prison system, soliciting groups including the Aryan Brotherhood and the MS-13 gang.

When he needed the government the most, he says it turned its back on him. . . . Read more . . .