The Effects of Paternal African American Mass Incarceration on Children

Abstract

Mass incarceration has been an ongoing issue for numerous years, and the African American community endures the most suffrage. Compared to whites and Hispanics males, African American males have taken over the majority of the population in prisons. However, how often is consideration given on how the incarceration of a father can affect the children in the household? The same way the incarcerated can slip into psychological issues such as depression and anxiety, so can the child. Studies have found that children with incarcerated fathers have an increased chance of behavioral problems compared to children with nonincarcerated fathers. The well being of an adolescent is compromised, similar to a child dealing with the trauma of parental separation, unstable family, and economic strain. This research paper provides evidence on how the children are affected and what can aid the incarcerated fathers to still be active in their child’s life.