Assignment:
Ethical Dilemma 1
Imagine that you have recently completed your criminal justice degree. You have chosen to begin your career as a correctional officer in a maximum security prison in order to gain experience and hope to be selected to move up in the correctional administration ranks. Being new to the prison environment has brought a number of challenges. For one, you are aware of the way power dynamics are present in prison that do not readily exist in the "free world." One power dynamic seems to occur in the evening hours after work details have ended and the inmates are sequestered to their cell blocks. Conflict seems to be present regarding the selection of the television channel. While some individuals want to watch the news, other individuals are determined to view the current ball game or another program. Additionally, it appears that a few particular inmates seem to control what is watched night after night.
You are aware that if the conflict is not dealt with, eventually violence may erupt. You want the residents of the cell block to be treated fairly and in a way that maintains order. How could you utilize peacemaking themes of connectedness, care, and mindfulness to resolve this conflict peacefully?