The Impact of Incarceration on Children of Offenders

Hundreds of thousands of children experience emotional turmoil each year as the result of the incarceration of a parent. In addition to coping with feelings of grief, anger and rejection, they must deal with the stigma associated with having a relative in prison. Although this article concentrates on the impact of incarceration on both the children of male and female inmates, it also describes the problems encountered by other family members within the family unit. Despite a newfound interest in research and information on children of offenders, there is still a tremendous need for positive and innovative programs that address the problems of this special population.