Role Problems of Offenders and Correctional Workers

Abstract

This paper analyzes selected problems of offenders and work ers in correction as special cases of more general problems of role. The research findings, theory, and related concepts of social role are drawn upon for a better understanding of these specific problems and ways to alter them, and the emerging specialization of role theory is discussed. The role problems of offenders are considered in terms of nonlegitimate socialization, characteristics of the deviant position, role discontinuity, and role conflict. The problems of correctional workers are set forth in terms of role discontinuities, role conflict and dissensus, role ambiguity, and pressure and strain. The identification of these various role prob lems carries implications for their solutions. As one perspective and body of knowledge required to understand and control be havior in real-life situations, role theory provides an emphasis upon the web of external social determinants and thereby helps to counterbalance a pervasive tendency to view personal difficul tiles as individual psychological maladies independent of the social environment.