Support and Resources for Mothers on Probation and Parole: A Critical Assessment

• In Event: Just and Effective Correctional Responses to Women Offenders

Abstract

Prior research has indicated parenting stress and challenges with child custody to be common issues for female offenders with children. For example, mothers that have experienced incarceration or residential treatment have commonly reported challenges in finding care for children, concern for the care provided to children during their absence, and also distress over the possibility of losing their custody rights. Community supervision requirements have also been found to complicate parenting due to time constraints and limited resources for balancing parenting and other obligations (i.e. work, school) while also meeting supervision requirements. Although these challenges have been found to be motivating for some, they often appear to be emotionally and physically debilitating, increasing the likelihood of continued substance use and reoffending. Since stressors related to parenting and maintaining custody have been pervasive for female offenders, the current study will assess support and resources provided to mothers by their supervising agents using a supportive communication framework. Specifically, the current study will examine female offender’s descriptions of communication with supervising agents regarding parenting stress and custody issues, in addition their reports on the subsequent effects of communication.

Authors

• Elizabeth Adams, Michigan State University

• Merry Morash, Michigan State University

• Sandi W. Smith, Michigan State University

• Deborah A. Kashy, Michigan State University