Exploring the Social-Emotional Challenges of Dutch Correctional Staff Working With Violent Detainees

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the social-emotional challenges of correctional staff working with violent detainees, together with their perceived collegial and organizational support. Since discussing such challenges is generally taboo among correctional staff, rigorous methodological strategies were employed to ensure safety and confidentiality, resulting in interviews with the majority of the multidisciplinary staff at the Dutch Facility for Uncontrollably Violent Detainees. Applying thematic analysis to transcripts, the results revealed significant opportunities to enhance staff's social-emotional well-being, highlighting that emotional safety, collegial interaction, and organizational support are more critical concerns than the violent population itself.