What is the consequence of not following the proper chain of command?

• A. It can lead to miscommunication of important information and damage relationships with supervisors.
• B. It guarantees faster decision-making.
• C. It improves morale.
• D. It reduces workload.

Answer: (A)

Following the chain of command ensures information, decisions, and requests move through the correct channels, preserving accountability, safety, and consistent operations in a corrections setting. When this path is bypassed, important information can be miscommunicated or distorted, and staff may receive conflicting instructions, which erodes trust between employees and supervisors. In corrections, supervisors hold the broader view of safety protocols, policy, and emergency procedures; skipping them can introduce safety risks and disrupt coordinated responses. This combination of miscommunication and damaged working relationships is the central consequence.

Choices that promise faster decisions, improved morale, or reduced workload don’t reflect how bypassing the chain actually behaves. Skipping established lines often creates confusion and extra work to fix errors, not efficiencies.