ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the gendered dynamics of spousal relationships of incarcerated women. It seeks to understand the roles played by gender and sexuality in shaping these relationships. The chapter uses gender lenses to critically examine how the penal system, prisons, and family are all gendered institutions that create a specific identity for the imprisoned woman. This identity presumably affects the partner and spousal relationships of imprisoned women. Thus, interwoven in the analysis are the issues of femininity versus criminality, language, and crime. Gendered symbolism and imprisonment are explored in relation to how society creates representations that create the identities of the imprisoned woman. Thus, the research informs feminist scholarships and correct male bias in research mainly centred on imprisoned men and marriage. The findings show that social stigma, women’s life situations, and children are the most important elements of gendered relationships and institutions affecting the spousal/partner relationships of incarcerated women.
