ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to examine the effects of the separation of inmate-mothers from their children and to explore programs or mechanisms designed to assist women in maintaining ties with their children in institutions. The psychological consequences of the separation were divided into four general categories: perceptions of the separation; explaining mother’s absence; plans for reunion; and anticipated problems in readjustment to children. An important aspect of the separation is an understanding of child-rearing attitudes among inmate-mothers. Inmate-mothers, perhaps more so than other incarcerated women, may have little confidence in themselves and, particularly, in the way in which they see their relationships with family members. Prior research has made only passing reference to operational programs that assist mothers and children to stay in touch with one another during incarceration. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
