Developmental System Changes for Children When a Parent is Released From Prison

• In Event: Developmental and Life Course Consequences of Parental Incarceration

Abstract

Children’s developmental systems are often disrupted in various ways when a parent is imprisoned, including through caregiver changes, school and residential changes and disruptions in relationships and social support, having implications for children’s wellbeing. Most of the existing research has focused on children’s experiences during parental incarceration or the long-term effects beyond the imprisonment, with little attention directed at the post-release period. The aim of this study was to examine whether, and to what extent, significant disruptions occur again in children’s developmental systems, specifically in their social networks, when the parent is released from prison. Social networks maps of 30 children were completed by their incarcerated parent at two times: (1) within three months prior to the parent’s release and (2) within six months post-release. Using these maps we examine changes in the social networks of children of prisoners following the release of their incarcerated parent. This includes individuals moving in/out of the developmental system, increased/decreased social support and changes in the type and strength of relationships. Our findings are discussed in the context of children’s development and wellbeing and we identify ways in which positive child development can be fostered throughout the process of parental imprisonment and re-entry.

Authors

• Holly Smallbone, Griffith University

• Susan Dennison, Griffith University

• Stefano Occhipinti, Griffith University

• Catrien Bijleveld, Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement