The Collateral Consequences of Maternal Incarceration for Adult Life Outcomes: Long-Term Effects on the Children Left Behind

• In Event: Noncriminal Life Outcomes of At-Risk Youth

Abstract

Research has indicated that maternal absence has negative consequences for children both during childhood and into adulthood. When that absence occurs as a result of maternal incarceration, the consequences may be even more far-reaching. Parental incarceration, mostly paternal, has been linked to negative outcomes for the children in terms of poorer mental and physical health, increased delinquent behavior, and education, among other consequences. The current study uses data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health to explore the link between maternal incarceration and later life outcomes, including educational attainment, socioeconomic status, health risk behaviors, and the children’s own parenting experiences.

Authors

• Leana Bouffard, Sam Houston State University

• Gaylene Armstrong, Sam Houston State University

• Lisa Muftic, Sam Houston State University