Abstract
This research project explores the impact of maternal incarceration on both mother and her minor child. This qualitative research project examined the question: what are important program components and interventions to help counteract the negative effects of maternal incarceration and improve the maternal-child bond? The sample includes ten employees who have worked with incarcerated/formerly incarcerated mothers and/or their minor children. The participants were interviewed using ten open-ended interview questions regarding their experience working with this population in areas that dealt with the needs of the mothers post incarceration. The interviews explored what types of programs and services the participants consider to be helpful for mothers and families. Important components include social support and resources to these mothers and their children, and that the maternal-child relationship is important, but that it has been problematic due to the lack of attachment before incarceration and the separation that occurs as a result of incarceration. The participants further stated that mothers need assistance with skills and tools to help combat incarceration, as well as residential/transitional living programs that allow families to stay together were identified. Recommendations are provided for social workers and policy makers about the special needs of these families.