Addressing occupational stress in a high-risk industry: The influence of agreeableness and specific correctional officer job characteristics on job satisfaction

Abstract

The study examined the direct and indirect effects of the key dimensions of the Job Demand-Control-Support (JDCS) model in predicting levels of strain in a sample of Queensland correctional officers. The personality trait of agreeableness, which has received little attention in the research literature, was also examined for its effect in predicting levels of strain as measured by job satisfaction and work related well-being. A cross-sectional methodology was adopted, combining the responses of two separate questionnaires, administered four months apart. Standardised self-report measures were used in addition to correctional officer specific measures designed to elicit information on perceived sources of stress and possible ways to improve well-being. Consistent with the strain hypothesis of the JDC model, increased job stressors reduced levels of job satisfaction and work related well-being. Method control had a direct positive effect on intrinsic job satisfaction while timing control had a direct positive effect on work related well-being. The value of workplace support, particularly supervisor support was highlighted with supervisor support predicting extrinsic job satisfaction and work related well-being. Agreeableness was identified as an important factor in deriving satisfaction from correctional work as it had a direct positive effect on intrinsic job satisfaction and acted as a moderator of the relationship between correctional officer stress and extrinsic job satisfaction. The buffer hypothesis of the JDCS model was not supported by this study. Strategies for improving correctional officer well-being through reducing job demands and increasing job control and support are proposed.