Psychological Experience of Correctional Officers’ Treatment of Mentally Ill Prisoners: Phenomenological Study

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to find out the meaning of the psychological experience of correctional officers’ treatment of mentally ill prisoners and describe its essential structure. Methods: The Colazzi's phenomenological research methodology was used. Nine correctional officers participated in this study. To collect data, in-depth individual interviews were conducted from September 4 to October 3, 2023. Results: Four clusters of themes were identified; “feeling daunted by unawareness of mental illness”, “darkness caused by the tangle of vines inside the correctional facility walls”, “determined to overcome and face it head-on”, and “warmth emanating from the custody of mentally ill prisoners.”. Conclusion: Through the psychological experiences of correctional officers in dealing with individuals with mental illness, it was possible to understand the demands of knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to mental illness, as well as psychological and mental stress. It is necessary to establish an educational program and crisis response protocol for correctional officers to cultivate knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to mental illness, and to activate the mental health promotion program currently being implemented in correctional facilities.