The Predominance of Young Correction Officers in Male Prisons: An In-Depth Analysis

The Uniformed career of a correction officer is often seen as a demanding and challenging role. When it comes to young correction officers, the distribution of these officers across male and female prisons is a topic of interest. This article delves into the prevalent tendency of young correction officers to be assigned to male prisons, the reasons behind it, and the role of gender dynamics in the corrections system.

Where Do Young Correction Officers Start?

According to various sources and personal accounts, starting a career as a young correction officer often begins at a male facility. For example, the writer of this article began their journey at 18 and was placed in a male institution. The reasoning behind this allocation depends largely on the availability of facilities and job openings. However, it is important to note that in regions with limited female correctional facilities, young officers are more likely to be assigned to predominantly male institutions.

The Prevalence of Male Prisons and the Lack of Female Facilities

The overwhelming majority of correctional facilities in many regions are male prisons. This reality is reflected in the U.S. Bureau of Prisons (BOP), where female facilities constitute a minority. There are only a handful of female prisons within the BOP system. This disparity leads to numerous consequences, including reduced staffing levels in female prisons and greater autonomy for correctional officers there.

Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned

The writer of this article has firsthand experience working at a female prison. Over a period of five years, they served as a chaplain conducting church services for female inmates at FPC Victorville. During this time, a single officer was assigned to the facility. The writer explains that most female prisons operate on a lower security level, which typically means they have fewer staff members. For instance, at FCI Pleasanton, the only high-medium security female prison the author has visited, the security level is higher, necessitating a larger number of officers.

Personal Decisions and Ethical Considerations

Reflecting on their own career, the author expresses a personal decision to request a male prison due to their trust issues. Specifically, they mention not being able to trust themselves around female inmates, acknowledging the risk of breaking the law through favors. This highlights the ethical considerations that young correction officers must navigate in their careers. The article also suggests that having same-sex employees when possible could help mitigate these issues, promoting a more secure and trustworthy environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the distribution of young correction officers in male prisons is a complex issue influenced by a variety of factors, including the limited number of female correctional facilities, security levels, and individual career choices. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving the functioning and ethical standing of the corrections system.

Keywords

young correction officers male prisons female prisons

Note: BOP refers to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.