Previous research has shown that victimization can negatively affect perceptions regarding workplaces, especially among those who face a higher risk of interpersonal violence, such as correctional officers. Several studies have also indicated that perceived danger or fear can influence workers’ perceptions of the work environment, including turnover intent. However, the mechanisms that can help explain the link between inmate-on-staff victimization and turnover intent have been understudied. This study uses data from a sample of 269 correctional officers from four prisons in South Korea to explore the mediating role of fear in this relationship. The role of aftermath concerns as a mediator has received strong statistical support from our regression models, showing that victimization influences turnover intent through concerns in response to victimization. Our study highlights that it is critical to consider the potential mechanisms of victimization to prevent correctional officers from leaving their jobs.
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