CCJS 497_ ASSIGNMENT 2

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OPPOSITE SEX IN PRISON FACILITIES 1 Opposite Sex in Prison Facilities STUDENT NAME University of Maryland Global Campus CCJS 497: Correctional Administration Professor Arthur Wallenstein February 13, 2024

OPPOSITE SEX IN PRISON FACILITIES 2 Opposite Sex in Prison Facilities This paper seeks to explore the employment of correction officers, encompassing both males and females, within correctional facilities. Specifically, it addresses whether male correction officers should be hired in adult female correctional facilities and whether female correction officers should be employed in male correctional facilities. Furthermore, the paper will identify at least two legal or political issues and two ethical considerations that may pose challenges or necessitate careful consideration in the staffing arrangement. Additionally, two peer-reviewed journal articles will be referenced to support the discussion of each perspective on the posed question. The question of whether to employ female correction officers in male correctional facilities is intriguing, particularly in light of the negative portrayals we often encounter. Media outlets, such as television and movies, frequently depict male correction officers in adult female correctional facilities as figures employing power-abuse techniques and intimidating inmates. While there may be instances where this is accurate, it should not be generalized to all male officers. The employment of male officers in correctional facilities offers numerous advantages. Male correctional officers in female correctional facilities are assigned various roles, including inmate supervision. Research indicates that female inmates often respond positively to the presence of male correction officers, forming favorable bonds compared to their interactions with female officers. Notably, correctional facilities train male officers on how to work and conduct themselves within women's facilities. This training covers aspects such as understanding the population's vulnerabilities, effective communication, preventing sexual misconduct, and addressing the abuse that many inmates endure (Zupan, 1992). Establishing positive relationships and communication with female offenders is crucial. Considering the extensive

OPPOSITE SEX IN PRISON FACILITIES 3 training and the benefits male officers bring to correctional facilities, allowing them to work in female facilities seems reasonable. Furthermore, contemporary correctional facilities are equipped with various protective measures, such as advanced CCTV cameras, guard towers, scanners, biometrics, and facial recognition. In previous decades, the employment of female correctional officers in facilities housing men was restricted due to concerns about the violent and aggressive nature of male inmates, particularly those convicted of serious offenses like rape and murder. In today's society, however, a significant number of women have risen to high ranks in the military, providing them with opportunities to work in male correctional facilities as well (Weinrath, 2016). Despite these opportunities, female correctional officers encounter various challenges, including sexual harassment and insults, creating a perception that they may be unsuitable for a role they are well- trained for. Some inmates also exhibit inappropriate behavior in the presence of female officers, leading to feelings of inadequacy among the officers who, when reporting such incidents, may fear being perceived as vulnerable. Weinrath (2016) argues that despite the numerous challenges faced by female correctional officers, they should be allowed to work in these facilities, as gender discrimination contradicts the principles of equality. Discrimination should not be based on factors such as national origin, sex, religion, color, or race. Consequently, male and female correctional officers, regardless of their background, possess the requisite qualifications and training to understand the ethical aspects of their work and should be afforded the opportunity to contribute to the profession. There are several legal considerations when determining whether female officers should work in male facilities or vice versa. One such consideration is outlined in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Guy & Fenley, 2014). This law prohibits employers from making

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OPPOSITE SEX IN PRISON FACILITIES 4 employment decisions based on national origin, sex, religion, color, or race. Consequently, male and female officers should be free from discrimination during employment (Guy & Fenley, 2014). Another legal aspect involves the consideration of prisoners' rights to privacy. This pertains to incidents that may violate prisoners' privacy rights and the potential infringement on the privacy rights of male and female officers working in housing units that encompass different genders. An ethical concern arises from reported cases of officers engaging in sexual misconduct with inmates. Over the past decades, numerous cases from both male and female correctional facilities have highlighted instances of sexual abuse by officers. Additionally, an unethical issue involves the allowance or facilitation of contraband in exchange for money or other benefits from inmates. This situation can occur in both female and male facilities. In their article, "Female Employees in All-Male Correctional Facilities," Rose Etheridge, Cynthia Hale, and Margaret Hambrick discuss the recommended approach for female officers in terms of their motivations and personal attitudes when working in male correctional facilities (Etheridge et al., 1984). The authors emphasize how adhering to specific parameters can enable women to fulfill their job responsibilities competently and safely. The article highlights the challenges faced by women, including the perception of weakness by male inmates, leading to potential aggression and rejection from notorious prisoners. It underscores the importance of mental preparedness for such situations and advocates for maintaining a positive attitude to boost morale at work. Another relevant article on this subject is by Anders Bruhn, titled "Gender Relations and Division of Labour among Prison Officers in Swedish Male Prisons." Bruhn's research, based on interviews, explores the advantages of having female officers in male correctional facilities. According to Bruhn (2013), one notable benefit is that "female officers contribute to a more prominent position for the rehabilitative side of prison work." In essence,

OPPOSITE SEX IN PRISON FACILITIES 5 women are perceived as more understanding, sensitive, and nurturing, fostering positive relationships with male inmates that result in constructive feedback.

OPPOSITE SEX IN PRISON FACILITIES 6 References Bruhn, A. (2013). Gender Relations and Division of Labour among Prison Officers in Swedish Male Prisons. Journal of Scandinavian Studies in Criminology & Crime Prevention , 14 (2), 115–132. https://doi-org.ezproxy.umgc.edu/10.1080/14043858.2013.845353 Etheridge, R., Hale, C., & Hambrick, M. (1984). Female Employees in All-Male Correctional Facilities. Federal Probation 48 (4), 54-65. https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/female-employees-all-male- correctional-facilities Guy, M. E., & Fenley, V. M. (2010). Inch By Inch: Gender Equity Since The Civil Rights Act Of 1964. Conference Papers -- American Political Science Association , 1–23. https://eds-p- ebscohost-com.ezproxy.umgc.edu/eds/detail/detail?vid=15&sid=0ba36abb-b97b-4389- ba3f-6ed4f3251e32%40redis&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWRzLWxpdmUmc2NvcGU9c2l0ZQ %3d%3d#AN=94851588&db=poh Jurik, N. C. (1988). Striking A Balance: Female Correctional Officers, Gender Role Stereotypes, and Male Prisons. Sociological Inquiry , 58 (3), 291–305. https://doi- org.ezproxy.umgc.edu/10.1111/j.1475-682X.1988.tb01063.x Weinrath, M. (2016). Behind the Walls: Inmates and Correctional Officers on the State of Canadian Prisons. UBC Press. Zupan, L, L. (1992). Men Guarding Women: An Analysis of the Employment of Male Correction Officers in Prisons for Women. Journal of Criminal Justice 20 (4), 297- 309. https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/men-guarding-women-analysis- employment-male-correction-officers

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