Incarcerated Fathers

Abstract

Prior research indicates that strong family support can play an important role in helping men and women transition from prison to home and can actually reduce the likelihood of recidivism. Assuming traditional roles within a family, such as parent or spouse, can also aid in the reentry transition process and has been linked to positive outcomes after release. Using data from a longitudinal study of fathers returning to the community after a period of incarceration, this article examines how the relationship between fathers and their children may influence aspects of recently released fathers’ lives that are important to a successful reentry transition, such as employment, abstinence from substance abuse, and mental health. Analyses show that fathers who have regular contact with their children before release and report good family support overall are more likely to be attached to their children after release. Moreover, in the first few months after release, fathers who are more strongly attached to their children work more hours per week, have better mental health, and are less likely to commit crime, get arrested, or violate conditions of their supervision.

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