Policy Press

Maternal Imprisonment and Family Life

From the Caregiver's Perspective

By Natalie Booth

Published

May 13, 2020

Page count

160 pages

ISBN

978-1447352297

Dimensions

203 x 127 mm

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

May 13, 2020

Page count

160 pages

ISBN

978-1447352310

Imprint

Policy Press

Published

May 13, 2020

Page count

160 pages

ISBN

978-1447352310

Imprint

Policy Press
Maternal Imprisonment and Family Life

Exploring the untold experiences of family members and friends caring for the children of female prisoners in England and Wales, this book sheds light on the collateral damage that incarceration causes those who take over caregiving responsibilities for the children of female prisoners.

Providing new qualitative research on the lived experiences of caregiving relatives, alongside theoretically informed and policy-relevant insights, Booth shows the difficult and damaging consequences of the ‘family sentence’ they serve. Exploring the stigma, scarce statutory support and policy neglect they face, she offers much-needed evidence to encourage the development of a more inclusive, understanding and family-oriented justice system.

“This is an original and well-researched book presenting new empirical data. A highly topical book that is recommended reading for anyone who is interested in the experiences of those affected by maternal imprisonment.” Helen Codd, University of Central Lancashire

Natalie Booth is Senior Lecturer in Criminology at Bath Spa University.

Preface: Linda’s story

The landscape of maternal imprisonment: caregiving and family life

Researching the caregiver’s lived experiences

Family constructions and caregiving practices

Renegotiating family life: caregiving in the aftermath of the mother’s imprisonment

Navigating the criminal justice system

Social support, familial stigma and release

Kin caregiving: occupying a disenfranchised status while serving the family sentence

Reflections on the research process