The trial, conducted in partnership with the Leon County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) in Florida, will examine the impact of this comprehensive, emotion-focused intervention on CO job satisfaction, workplace safety, occupational stress, and retention. The HeartMath program uses self-regulation techniques that COs can apply in both professional and personal settings to reduce stress, build resilience, and enhance well-being. The study also explores whether the intervention can increase retention rates among female and racially diverse officers, as well as improve officers' attitudes toward the incarcerated population, potentially leading to less punitive behavior. Correctional officers often face high levels of chronic stress due to their complex work environment, including exposure to workplace violence and the dual role of enforcing security while supporting rehabilitation. These stressors contribute to significant physical and mental health issues, such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and high turnover rates. Jail officers, in particular, experience additional challenges due to the transient nature of the jail population, leading to unpredictable and often dangerous situations. Despite these challenges, few interventions have been developed specifically for jail officers to address their stress and well-being.
The HeartMath program aims to reduce stress by teaching COs techniques to achieve "heart rhythm coherence," which helps the body self-regulate under stressful conditions. The trial will include 300 participants who will be randomly assigned to either the HeartMath program or a control group, with follow-up assessments conducted over a 12-month period. The study will measure several outcomes, including job satisfaction, perceptions of workplace safety, absenteeism, and retention rates. In addition, the study will assess whether the intervention leads to changes in CO attitudes toward incarcerated individuals, potentially reducing punitive behaviors and the use of force. The trial is expected to have a broad impact, providing insights into effective interventions for reducing stress among COs, promoting workforce diversity, and improving overall jail environments. If successful, the HeartMath program could be widely implemented in jails and other correctional institutions, contributing to better staff wellness, improved interactions with incarcerated populations, and more equitable treatment. The study will also inform policy and practice in correctional agencies, with potential implications for reducing CO turnover and enhancing institutional safety.