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A Conceptual Framework for Understanding the Stigmatization of Children of Incarcerated Parents

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Abstract

Stigmatization is often listed as one of the adverse consequences of parental incarceration; yet, there is very little research on this phenomenon. We address this knowledge deficit by providing a conceptual model of stigmatization and describing how it may apply to children with parents in jail or prison. This model helps to explain why families conceal the fact that a child’s parent is incarcerated; the potentially protective function of social withdrawal; possible links between stigmatization and childhood emotional and behavioral problems; how fear of stigmatization may impede help seeking; and the possibility for research and advocacy to contribute to the stigmatization of children who experience parental incarceration. It also helps to define specific aspects of stigmatization requiring further study.

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  1. Jane Addams College of Social Work, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1040 W. Harrison St. MC309, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA

    Susan D. Phillips & Trevor Gates

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  1. Susan D. Phillips
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  2. Trevor Gates
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Correspondence to Susan D. Phillips.

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Phillips, S.D., Gates, T. A Conceptual Framework for Understanding the Stigmatization of Children of Incarcerated Parents. J Child Fam Stud 20, 286–294 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-010-9391-6

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