The Experience and Adjustment of Juvenile Probation Officers: A Qualitative Study
The Experience and Adjustment of Juvenile Probation Officers: A Qualitative Study
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Issue Date
2020
Authors
Gray, Kimberly M.
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Abstract
Previous research has examined the roles and responsibilities of juvenile probation officers (JPOS) using quantitative methods. However, a review of the literature indicates that JPOS's subjective experience of their initial adjustment to the occupation has not previously been studied. This study explored the experience of JPOs to provide insight into ways they can be supported throughout adjusting to the department requirements, personal beliefs, and/or any psychological challenges that may arise. A total of 10 participants, aged 35-53, who currently and/or previously worked as JPOS for at least two years participated in semi-structured interviews. Through conventional qualitative content analysis, themes about the participants' experience of adjusting to the occupation emerged. Findings indicated that most participants experienced symptoms of burnout. Initial employment was followed by various difficulties, including delayed core training, excessive workload, and ambivalence toward punishment and rehabilitative job requirements. Participants also discussed factors of resiliency, support, and self-care practices that assisted in coping with daily work stressors. A commonality amongst all participants was a sense of pride in the profession and services provided. Clinical and practical implications of the findings, study limitations, and future research recommendations are discussed.
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Keywords
"Juvenile Probation Officer","Burnout" Stress","Adjustment"