Some ambiguity exists in various correctional roles and can lead to role stress and the development of unhealthy situations for the individual and the clients served. The three general categories of role stress are role conflict, role inadequacy, and role frustration. The development of a positive attitude and professionalism should reduce the incidence of stress in the organization. Professional corrections requires role integration, a need and an interest, and a readiness to make changes in a professional and competent manner. It also calls for an ability to recognize role conflicts and resultant stress. Understanding stress is the first step in its control. In the correctional setting, the main concern is with negative stresses that have the potential to cause staff dysfunction. These effects may be temporary or longstanding and may be manifested emotionally and physically among staff members. Three major causes of stress are frustration, conflict, and pressure. Multiple stresses occurring simultaneously, the duration of the stress situation, and the magnitude of the stress must be considered when analyzing situations for the purpose of easing dysfunctional stress. Three basic reactions to stress -- depression, anger, and anxiety -- all have an impact on the personality, health, and job performance of the individual. Symptoms of stress related directly to the job include high absentee rate, alcoholism, accidents, serious errors in judgment, and slow reaction.