“It was a risk, but it was one I was willing to take.” The experiences of moving to be closer to an incarcerated loved one

• In Event: DCS Handbook on Lived Experiences: Studies of Lived Experience

Abstract

Mass incarceration affects not only the imprisoned, but their families as well. Thus, understanding this process of “doing time together” is key to developing a holistic account of the lived experience of incarceration (Comfort, 2008). Unfortunately, incarcerated individuals may be placed hundreds or even thousands of miles away from their loved ones (Arditti et al., 2005; Jackson et al., 1997). These distances can make visitation sporadic or even impossible, thus negatively impacting social ties (Braman, 2004) and the benefits that come with it. Some family members attempt to remedy the situation by moving closer to loved ones in prison. These moves can involve relocating to a neighboring state, or from one region of the country to another. While there has been discussion of this phenomenon in larger studies of incarceration (see Braman, 2004; Comfort, 2008), no studies have focused exclusively on relocation. This chapter uses interviews with 9 family members to understand the experience of moving closer to a loved one in prison. These moves fundamentally alter participants’ own lived experiences, as well as those of their incarcerated loved ones. By unpacking the journeys, this chapter offers a unique perspective into what incarceration takes away, and what family members will go through to get it back.

Author

• Christopher P. Dum, Kent State University