ABSTRACT
The physical infrastructure of imprisonment plays a key role in shaping relational ties with their children. Yet, despite difficulties navigating prison visitation, parents find ways to achieve intimacy and general connectivity with their children, beginning to (re)establish trust and understanding with one another. Relationships between parents and children can go through different periods of reflection and change during the sentence. We explain the mechanisms behind these reflections of change. The chapter finalises by assessing parents’ hopes and aspirations for their relationships with their children once released, often outlining a more cautious appraisal, even in instances where relationships had seen positive change during the sentence.
