Promoting mother-child relationships for incarcerated women and their children

According to recent data, approximately 70% of incarcerated women have at least one child younger than 18. In addition, nearly one quarter to one third of incarcerated mothers have children younger than 5. While in prison, female offenders desire to bond and sustain a relationship with their children. They also hope to resume their maternal responsibilities after release. Parenting education and opportunities for extended visits offer a means to this end. This literature review examines programs focusing on improved mother-child relationships through these means. Descriptive and empirical data are included. General findings and common themes are offered across studies. In addition, implications for practice, research, and policy are provided with an emphasis on their relevance to early intervention professionals, programs, and agencies.