Children Of Incarcerated Parents

Broghan Swart*, Abdulla Alkaabi*, Hannah Carassco, Olivia Burtand, Jacqueline Kautz*, Reed College of Media, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Field (Broad Category): Communications/Journalism (Oral-Human Engagement) 

Student’s Major: Public Relations 

In this research study, we have covered the mental health effects on children that have or had incarcerated parents. We questioned how we can resolve negative cognitive effects, along with coping mechanisms and programs that could be provided for the children. After speaking to a psychiatrist, a social worker, a daycare worker, and numerous people who have first-handedly seen this situation; it has become more clear how to help these children. A survey methodology of research has been provided to each of these participants. It was found that it is understood the underlying mental health effects on children that have incarcerated parents. It was also found that there are multiple program that help children to cope with this and teach them multiple different coping mechanisms, also teaches them how to make better relationships with the parent that has been incarcerated. The underlying mental health effects were found to be negative, but with the help we have discovered for these children is very beneficial and will serve not only the child, but also the parent. 

Funding: 

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: Other
Strat Comm 421