NCJ Number
210869
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 69 Issue: 1 Dated: June 2005 Pages: 31-42
Date Published
June 2005
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This chapter from the author's new book on prisoner reentry examines research on the dynamics of the experiences of ex-inmates as they return to their families upon release, and it explores programs that provide support for and involve inmates families in the reentry process.
Abstract
The chapter begins by identifying and examining the antecedents to the creation of families, i.e., relationships between young men and young women, in communities where the rates of arrest, removal, incarceration, and reentry are particularly high. In such communities there is a "gender imbalance," which is a term for a circumstance in which there are fewer men than women. This translates into large numbers of fatherless families in communities with high rates of incarceration. Next, the chapter discusses imprisonment's impact on relationships between an incarcerated parent and his/her children. The spouses and children of inmates experience the stress of fewer financial resources and the logistics and consequences of attempting to maintain a significant relationship with the incarcerated spouse/parent. Further, roles and behaviors of family members developed during incarceration and changes in the incarcerated spouse/parent while in prison can pose significant family adjustment problems upon reentry. The chapter concludes with suggestions for how to address the various family-related problems experienced during and after incarceration of a spouse/parent. A comprehensive effort to serve and support inmates and their families during and after incarceration requires a broad coalition of agencies, including correctional agencies (prisons and parole agencies), child protection agencies, foster care services, family service agencies, schools, community organizations, and State and local governments. 3 figures, 1 table, and 12 notes