Implementation of FaceTime as a Family Visitation Opportunity: Leveraging Technology to Increase Family Connectedness

• In Event: Contact with the Outside World: Visits and Relationships Beyond the Prison Walls

Abstract

The quality of family relationships is an important predictor for successful community reintegration. However, correctional facilities are often not equipped to foster a relationship between women and their family members, many of whom are actively caring for incarcerated women’s children during the period of confinement. Secure facilities may offer limited contact and visitation opportunities, often due to security, limited staffing, and at times a focus on punishment over rehabilitation. Families also lack resources to visit confined loved ones. This study evaluates a pilot program involving the implementation of weekly FaceTime or Skype sessions between a sample of confined women and their family members. The study takes place at a secure community-based substance abuse treatment facility in a large urban county. Preliminary findings from an ongoing evaluation will be discussed.

Authors

• Lori Lovins, University of Houston-Downtown

• Rebecca Pfeffer, University of Houston-Downtown

• Beatriz Amalfi, University of Houston-Downtown