Introduction

In 1978, Hans Toch published a thought-provoking contribution titled “Is a correctional officer, by any other name, a screw?” This work highlighted the lack of recognition for correctional officers' contributions in ensuring inmate survival and mental well-being. Toch's pointed critique of the penitentiary administration underscored the need to acknowledge correctional officers who, through the exercise of discretion, enhance inmate welfare and challenge narrow, conventional definitions of their roles.