Considering the pervasiveness of the “danger imperative” in prisons: Perspectives from reform-oriented correctional officers

Abstract

The “danger imperative” in policing, as noted by Sierra-Arévalo, defines how officers perceive both their job and the environment in which they work. It is unclear how this may generalize to others working in the public safety field, including prison staff. Although public perceptions and media narratives suggest a preoccupation with danger in American prisons, other narratives, including that of dynamic security and incarcerated people as future “good neighbors” portrayed in the Scandinavian countries, exist. To gain insight into these contrasting visions, we examine interview data from correctional staff participating in a reform-oriented project in an East Coast state, which provides a lens through which a correctional culture in transition can be viewed. Although we find some degree of adherence to a danger-oriented professional identity, characterized by distrust and othering of prison residents, and to some extent other staff, we also observe resistance to the principles of the danger imperative and expression of humanitarian concern for the welfare of incarcerated people and the communities to which they may eventually return.