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A Warden Or A Ballerina: Examining The Relationship Between Gender Socialization, And Occupational Choice Among Prison Wardens And Superintendents, Karen Altendorf

The Qualitative Report

This study explores the career experiences of women who hold leadership positions within the field of corrections as Wardens and Superintendents. Specifically the research seeks to examine the personal biographies of these women in an effort to document life experiences shaping their occupational choices. Twenty nine interviews were conducted with wardens and superintendents from 13 states. Subjects were questioned about family, education, perceptions of occupational choice, and career aspirations. Generational differences exist between female wardens in relation to boarder social trends in gender and occupation. The more support women receive from parents and family to pursue education and careers, the …