ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the purpose, goals, and typical policies associated with prison visitation. Prison visitation is an important source of social support for inmates during confinement. Such support can help to alleviate the pressures of prison life and contribute to the maintenance of relationships, which are important for reentry planning and to the reintegration process. Institutional barriers and family support capacities are important determinants of prison visitation. Relationship dynamics play a critical role in prison visitation patterns as well. The motivation to keep the family together can be a primary driver of prison visitation, particularly when children are involved. Prison visitation has been shown to be linked to a wide array of outcomes including institutional misconduct, recidivism, and mental health. In addition, prison visits have been shown to contribute to improved mental health outcomes and increase the likelihood of post-release family reunification. Specifically, in-prison contact can reduce symptoms of depression—particularly among women and younger inmates.
