"They Handcuffed Him, Shackled Him, all of that-in Front of Her": Family Experiences and Considerations Upon Arrest of a Parent.

Abstract

Since 1980 in the United States (US), more than 10 million arrests have occurred each year. With a majority of those incarcerated being parents, millions of children and remaining household members are adversely affected. Despite the volume of US arrests, few studies provide family context and child considerations about the time period of arrest. This study sought to describe family experiences and considerations to best support youth during parental arrest. Qualitative data were gathered using semi-structured, in-depth phone interviews from March to August 2020 with adolescents (12-18 years) who have had a parent incarcerated, caregivers of children of incarcerated parents, and parents upon one year of release of incarceration. Participants were recruited using flyers and emails to community-based organizations and schools. General themes emerged through qualitative content analysis and inductive open coding procedures. Data from 26 participants were summarized (10 adolescents, 10 caregivers, and six parents upon one year of release from jail/prison). Upon arrest, family experiences were described as traumatizing and stigmatizing regardless of whether the child was present to observe the arrest. The effects of witnessing the arrest were influenced by officer treatment. Families shared how limited household- and community-based resources were available to help the family cope with the consequences of the arrest. Results underscore the need for family-centered approaches and improved interventions upon arrest that may better support children and family members during this time. Recommendations for better transparency, connection, and transition supports are discussed.