When Actions and Attitude Count Most: Assessing Perceived Level of Responsibility and Support for Inmate Treatment and Rehabilitation Programs Among Correctional Employees

Abstract

In July 2006, the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections began delivering a 2-hour training session titled “Reinforcing Positive Behavior” (RPB). Findings from an attitude survey showed that the training was effective for changing staff attitudes and awareness about inmate treatment and rehabilitative programs. Specific findings revealed that correctional officers, when compared with treatment staff, were less concerned about showing inmates respect and also minimized the impact of their own actions on inmate behavior and rehabilitation efforts. Policy implications and recommendations for improving the RPB training and for furthering data collection efforts during basic orientation and inside the state institutions will be discussed.