Diving into the Realities of Becoming a Jail Guard: Motivations and Realities

The desire to become a jail guard, or correctional officer as they are formally known, can stem from a variety of motivations. Often, these motivations are rooted in practical or emotional considerations. The journey to becoming a jail guard is not just about the uniform or the badge; it is about understanding the real reasons behind the decision to enter this unique profession.

Why Do People Want to Become Jail Guards?

Many correctional officers (COs) enter the field for reasons that may not align with the idealized perception of the job. In fact, most individuals take this path simply because it offers a viable means of employment. Some find employment in the corrections field because of its competitive salary packages, which can offer financial stability for them and their families.

Others may take the position due to the benefits, such as comprehensive medical and dental insurance. My personal experience with a colleague who became a CO after securing health insurance for his family exemplifies this. Additionally, the job can serve as a stepping stone, offering potential for advancement and better career opportunities.

The challenge is that the reality of the job is often different from the initial expectations. A friend who worked in prison describes a high turnover rate among COs, noting that for every new officer who starts, another quits. This suggests that the reality of working in corrections can be less than glamorous, leading many to decide that it is not for them.

Job Motivations and Realities at South Central Correctional Center

The South Central Correctional Center in Licking, Mo., is a case in point. Many of the staff members were related or knew one another growing up. This close-knit community created a unique environment where staff were often related or had family members working in the facility. For example, a Major had his nephew as a Sergeant and the Sergeant’s wife was a CO, while another staff member had two sons in the same position. These relationships made the work environment different for those who did not have such connections. However, this close-knit community also led to a different standard of treatment for outsiders, highlighting the impact of personal and familial ties on the job environment.

The Evolution of Corrections Job Appeals

When I began my career in corrections in 2015, the job appeal was quite different. Starting salaries were often competitive, with a base pay and medical and dental benefits included. My retirement package, for instance, is now around 5400 a month. Despite these advantages, the journey to becoming a CO can be challenging.

Considering my path, I had never aspired to become a CO. It was a decision made out of necessity rather than a lifelong dream. The employment landscape necessitated that I explore other opportunities, leading me to apply for jobs in corrections. When a state CO position offered me a full-time position, it was an attractive prospect.

Reflecting on my experience in corrections over the past five and a half years, I found that none of the COs I met had aspired to be a CO. Instead, they had chosen the profession due to the availability of a job that aligned with their financial needs or offered better conditions than what they had previously. The journey to becoming a CO is therefore often driven by practical rather than aspirational motivations.

In conclusion, the reasons behind becoming a jail guard vary widely, from family ties and financial necessity to the prospect of job stability and benefits. It is essential to understand these motivations to appreciate the complex realities of the role, despite the romanticized view often associated with this profession.

Key Points Discussed

Practical job opportunities and benefits, especially medical and dental insurance, are significant motivators for entering the corrections field.

Personal and familial connections often play a role in the staffing of correctional facilities, creating unique dynamics and impacts on the job environment.

High turnover rates among correctional officers indicate that the realities of the job can differ from the initial expectations, leading some to leave the profession.