Studies of job satisfaction of correctional staff members have shown relatively low levels of job satisfaction. Important in these studies is the link between work stress and job satisfaction. However, to date, researchers have neglected consideration of the role that emotional dissonance may play in the job satisfaction of correctional staff members. Drawing on data from 211 staff members in two Kentucky prisons, the present research examines the role of emotional dissonance and perceived work stress on correctional staff members’ job satisfaction. Structural equation modeling shows that emotional dissonance is an antecedent of work stress, which in turn affects satisfaction with supervisors. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.
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