NCJ Number
223307
Journal
Criminal Justice Policy Review Volume: 19 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2008 Pages: 215-238
Date Published
June 2008
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This article examines the issue of child visitation for criminally confined mothers from a law, social science, and policy perspective.
Abstract
With the growing rate of incarcerated mothers behind bars, immediate reformist action is essential. States must get involved by developing policy that promotes healthy relationships between mothers and children, despite the criminal confinement of female caregivers. As the preceding analysis demonstrates, the gains stemming from visitation are profound. Visitation impacts recidivism reduction, promotes family reunification post-release, and makes positive community reentry possible. The existing empirical research and the relevant State statutes substantiate this view. This article examines the issue of child visitation for criminally confined mothers. The topic is assessed, mindful of what the social science literature reports, especially in regards to recidivism trends, community reintegration concerns, and prospects for successful family reunification. Notes, references