From the Inside Out: Effects of Parental Incarceration on Children

Abstract

While incarceration rates have been increasing, conversations and knowledge on children with incarcerated parents have not. Children, like their parents, undergo challenges and serious adaptations when they lose their guardian to the criminal justice system. Studies done on children of incarcerated adults show the disproportionate impact on racialized and marginalized populations within Canada, as well as the economic consequences that follow. Due to various factors that unravel during these children's lives, they face more social risks than many other individuals developing at the same time under separate circumstances.

Reading between the bars: exploring the representation of young adults with incarcerated parents in text literature

“…Under the guise of assessment instruments, (Philips & O'Brien, 2012) state that the most consistent research conclusion in literature is that children of incarcerated parents experience more risk factors and have more needs than the general population (Philips & O'Brien, 2012). This concept was also seen in (Dallaire, 2007;Hanington, 2020;Murray & Farrington, 2008).…”

“…Intergenerational imprisonment is the repeated process of incarceration throughout generations (Dallaire et al, 2010). Intergenerational imprisonment is especially prevalent for Canada's Indigenous Peoples as a result of colonization, and trauma that has been endured and passed down for generations (Hanington, 2020). This compacted victimization and oppression has led to a significant presence of Indigenous Peoples within Canada's correctional facilities.…”

“…Miller and Barnes (2015) imply that secure attachments before the age of 18 can improve living conditions in later life. Hanington (2020) mimics the benefits and downfalls of insecure attachments and suggests community-based alternatives to confinement. This substitution would advocate for parents to remain in the home (when appropriate and safe) to ensure the child is supported and the process is normalized.…”