NCJ Number
111588
Date Published
1987
Length
64 pages
Annotation
This booklet for women whose partners are in jail or prison traces the experiences of families from the first days following the arrest to release from prison and homecoming.
Abstract
Immediate issues that must be faced after the partner is incarcerated are addressed, including dealing with feelings of loss and separation, loss of privacy associated with having the police in the home, explaining the partner's absence to children, coping with guilt and depression, and dealing with financial problems, including applying for public assistance. The role of community resources, including churches, in dealing with the separation is discussed. Issues associated with visiting the absent partner are addressed, and guidelines for survival are presented that include a consideration of seeking vocational training and work. The uncertainties of the parole process are described, and points to consider in deciding whether to reunite with the partner after his release are delineated. Finally, readjustments (sexual, financial, parenting) that will be required once the partner returns home are discussed. Each section of the booklet includes photographs, delineates problems, offers suggestions for dealing with them, and provides questions the woman should ask herself.