Understanding the Experiences and Needs of Children of Incarcerated Parents

Views from Mentors

By Urban Institute

February 6, 2008

Summary

Childhood upheaval is the unintended consequence of parents going to prison. Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors of kids with jailed parents shared their perceptions of exactly how that event affected their mentees’ mental, physical and emotional stability.  The results of that conversation are presented here. 

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Stigma and shame were felt by most children of incarcerated parents discussed in this study.

A mother’s imprisonment is a greater disruption in a child’s life than a father’s.

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations