Prison Research Meets Practice: A Conversation on Correctional Staff Wellness

Join the Urban Institute for a conversation on wellness for correctional employees and how social science research and lessons from on-the-ground implementation can promote mental and physical health within this profession. Studies have highlighted pervasive mental and physical health conditions spurred by the unique challenges of this job, including long-term stress and high incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder. Research and practice must converge to improve environmental conditions and reduce the stigma of seeking help for those working in America’s prisons and jails.

This discussion pairs Lisa Jaegers, an associate professor who codirects a project about trauma and organizational stress among correctional workers, with Andy Potter, a 30-year veteran of the Michigan Department of Corrections who leads a national campaign on correctional officer wellness. The conversation will focus on how research and practice can come together to promote positive mental and physical health and wellness practices among correctional officials.