Consequences of Partner Incarceration for Women’s Employment

• In Event: 328 - Regular Session: Gender and Work: Structure, Culture, and Emotions

Abstract

As the rate of incarceration in the U.S. has increased, researchers have developed an interest in understanding the consequences of this expansion not only for current and former prisoners but also for their loved ones. This research has documented the limited opportunities men have to earn income while in prison and the difficulties they face finding employment upon release or earning decent wages when they do find work. However, little research has considered the relationship between men’s incarceration and the employment of the women to which they are connected. The families of incarcerated individuals face a high degree of economic instability that is often exacerbated by family members’ involvement with the penal system. This paper uses data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study to investigate how men’s incarceration is associated with the employment of their female partners, or women with whom they share children, as well as variation in this association. Results show that women experiencing the first-time incarceration of their partners work more hours per week than women whose partners have not been incarcerated. There is further evidence that women’s employment and hours are particularly responsive to relationship status and race/ethnicity.

Author

• Angela Bruns, University of Washington