The Role of Child Visitation on Prison Misconduct

• In Event: Seeking Safety in Prison: Promoting Institutional Wellbeing

Abstract

This study examines the effects of parent-child visitation on prison misconduct among incarcerated fathers, drawing on data from the Survey of Inmates 2016, a nationally representative dataset of incarcerated individuals. Utilizing logistic regression analyses, this study investigates whether parent-child visitation (measured dichotomously as yes/no) reduces the likelihood of engaging in prison misconduct. Interaction terms are incorporated to assess whether the effects of visitation on misconduct differ by race/ethnicity, highlighting potential racial disparities in institutional behavior. Control variables include age, length of incarceration, and offense type. Results are anticipated to demonstrate that parent-child visitation significantly reduces the likelihood of institutional misconduct, with differences in effects based on racial and ethnic backgrounds. The findings suggest that enhancing access to visitation for incarcerated fathers may serve as a valuable intervention to reduce institutional misconduct, improve prison safety, and promote a more rehabilitative correctional environment. Policy implications emphasize the importance of developing visitation policies that are culturally sensitive and accessible, addressing barriers disproportionately experienced by fathers of color to achieve greater behavioral stability within correctional settings.

Author

• Olivia Shaw, Arizona State University