Ok so I am almost 5 months pregnant. I was offered a position in a mens medium security prison. I am a social worker with the state in the child protective services unit currently and need a change of pace. I will be working with inmates with alcohol and drug problems. However everyone has me all paranoid that something terrible will happen. Should I be concerned?
#1 by Ethel on July 4, 2010 - 9:21 pm
I think the inmates would be more likely to be kind to someone who is large with child. Plus the addicts are usually a lot more calm then general population.
#2 by Stop being so freaking grumpy on July 4, 2010 - 9:24 pm
I dont think i’d want to do it. but I think you’ll find that even rough men in prisons cannot stand to manhandle or see the manhandling of a pregnant woman. Men who assault women and children are not known for fairing well in prison population- even the killers and drug dealers look down on that.
#3 by lilpoonum on July 4, 2010 - 9:55 pm
I’m not sure but my brother is a guard in a prison and he said like 99% of inmates hates the inmates who come in for crimes against women and children. A lot of rapists, child molesters and domestic assultants (stuff like that) get beat up as soon as they get in to prison. I think you’ll be fine.
#4 by flutterbidiva on July 4, 2010 - 10:36 pm
I’ve worked in a maximum security prison and can tell you that most inmates are very kind to women. Just NEVER forget where you are or who you’re dealing with. Also, do NOT let them do things for you just because you are pregnant. They will look at this like they’re helping you and doing favors for you. NOTHING is free in a correctional facility. If you feel threatened, be vocal. Let someone know. DO NOT WRITE IT OFF. You have to protect yourself and your child.
I enjoyed my own experience, but it’s not for everyone. Just be aware of your surroundings.
#5 by Kimberly G on July 4, 2010 - 11:07 pm
You will be fine but the people in charge may be worried about on the job safety and may want you to wait. I have a friend that works for the prison in my state and when she was pregnant they made her do desk work and didn’t want her near the inmates for safety concerns in case a fight broke out or something.
#6 by Fountains of Jane on July 4, 2010 - 11:16 pm
Have you ever heard that people fear what they don’t understand? How many of your cautioners have actualy worked in a prisson before? I’ll bet it’s zero.
You’re in danger at pretty much any job you work. Someone could walk into your place of business tomorrow and shoot you, for that matter. I personaly think I’d be safer in a place where wepons are so redily availably to my clients and where my coworkers are armed.
#7 by Due May 1, 2009 on July 5, 2010 - 12:05 am
I wouldn’t worry as much to stress yourself out over it. If you are like me the you have to work regardless of the situation. I would be extremely careful and very aware of my surroundings at all times.
#8 by mom on July 5, 2010 - 12:56 am
I would turn that position down. Being a mother to two children I wouldn’t do something that could take their mother away from them.