Waiting for mum: the impact of maternal incarceration on adolescent children

摘要: In western countries such as Australia, the U.S. and U.K., women’s prison population has increased exponentially over past decade, far outstripping rate of growth in male imprisonment. The majority women are mothers dependent children. Subsequently, increasing numbers children being separated from their mothers; many displaced home effectively left parentless. Despite a growing body knowledge since 1960s, affected, little is known about these children, particularly older adolescents. This study examines impact maternal imprisonment on 20 young people, aged between 10 18 years, whose were incarcerated two prisons Victoria (Australia). Data was gathered directly people themselves, well small cohort professionals, after mother’s release prison. To answer research question, sought retrospective predominantly qualitative data children’s lives before, during analysed variety ways, initially through development case studies then across cases using thematic content analysis, drawing themes emerging priori categories gleaned earlier research. shows that incarceration significant adolescents, it uncommon for to have secure care arrangements place at time For be also common, although most maintain some contact with mother course her While return live mother, this largely influenced by child’s pre-prison placement visiting patterns Interestingly, not satisfied arrangements, those who cared fathers, cope difficulties internalising them, do report persistent adverse effects. provides new challenging ideas. It describes important role played planning reaction incarceration; previously been examined. findings illustrate poor coping mechanisms employed discuss range social factors which affect coping. Finally, influential actual family reunifications described examined; very few studies, none data. description reunification pathways, highlights importance visiting. stress begins before sentencing continues beyond release. Yet date focused period Overall, finds limited formal or informal attention given adults involved needs. They seen acknowledged any point adult criminal justice process. From arrest, sentencing, release, they considered participants proceedings.