The four jails represented were in Ventura County, Calif.; Contra Costa County, Calif.; Lane County, Oreg.; and Jefferson County, Ky. Subjects were a stratified sample of selected jailers based on their demographic characteristics. The jailers felt threatened by inmates, misunderstood by superiors, and unsupported by fellow officers. The perceived weakening of their power relative to inmates fostered a sense of powerlessness, meaninglessness, and isolation. The perceived ambiguity and contradictions of superiors operational directives generated feelings of normlessness, powerlessness, and isolation. Deterioration in working relations among the guards contributed to feelings of isolation, normlessness, and self-estrangement. Overall, institutional changes have undermined guards' sense of control over their work environment and responsibilities while lowering self-esteem, job satisfaction, and commitment to their work. 1 note and 16 references.