NCJ Number
222487
Date Published
August 2007
Length
83 pages
Annotation
Based on surveys and focus groups that involved caregivers of 130 children of incarcerated parents in Wyoming, this report presents findings on the caregivers and families of these children.
Abstract
The study produced five key findings. First, the caregiver was usually the mother or grandparent of the child. Second, the incarceration of the parent placed a severe financial strain on the household, and the State system of financial support was inadequate. Third, the children were at risk for negative emotional and behavioral consequences for the child, and caregivers were concerned about the lack of an adult role model for the children. Fourth, the caregivers had mixed emotions about the value of communication (letters, phone calls, and visits) between the children and the incarcerated parent. Fifth, the caregivers were highly mobile, with more than half having moved three or more times in their lifetime. Based on these findings, the report advises that caregivers may benefit from counseling services that could help them understand the needs and risk of the children. They could also use advice and guidance in complying with State rules and procedures that may deter them from seeking available financial support. Caregivers could also be helped by programs that facilitate better communication between the children and their incarcerated parents. Programs are also needed to assist caregivers in daily tasks related to caring for a child, particularly if the child is a new member of the household. Caregivers of children under 12-years-old completed surveys on behalf of the children. Caregivers also participated in focus groups that gave them the opportunity to communicate directly and at length with the researchers. One focus group consisted of three female caregivers, and the second group involved four female caregivers. 25 tables, 11 references, and appended response to the caregiver survey and focus group transcripts