NCJ Number
116724
Date Published
1988
Length
20 pages
Annotation
Although only a few empirical studies focus directly on the children of imprisoned mothers, some studies are cited that concern children in prison units, children separated from imprisoned parents, and psychological research on the developmental impact of imprisoned mothers on children.
Abstract
Developmental research focuses on attachment theory and institutionalization in early childhood. It is concluded that, despite the existence of strong research contentions about the consequences of maternal imprisonment, such research provides insufficient reliable data to confirm or reject such consequences. Developmental research indicates that the impact of mothers' imprisonment on children is more complex than previously suggested. This complexity stems from the fact that available information does not point clearly in the direction of a particular course of action. The literature review suggests that simplified formulations of salient maternal imprisonment issues have directed attention away from a detailed examination of factors that could actively improve the quality of child care. 66 references.