An Exploratory Study of Resilence in Adult Children Affected by Parental Incarceration

Abstract

Parental incarceration is as an adverse childhood experience which negatively affects a child’s well-being, mental health, academic performance, and socio-economic level. More than 5 million children have experienced having one or both parents incarcerated before they reach age 18. Previous research has illustrated that many negative outcomes can be mitigated by protective factors such as compassionate caregivers, positive interpersonal relationships, and social support. The literature is scant regarding the lived experiences of Adult Children who were impacted by parental incarceration. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences and resilience of Adult Children impacted by the incarceration of one or both parents. This exploration of lived experiences of adult children impacted by parental incarceration allowed for a greater understanding of their life while one or both parents were incarcerated as well as whom or what they considered their biggest support during this time in their lives. This study utilized the phenomenological research design approach where the researcher was the primary instrument of data collection. The sample consisted of 8 individuals: 7 female and 1 male. Six participants lived in Georgia, one lived in California, and one lived in Florida. Semi-structured interviews were completed via zoom. The analysis of the interviews produced 8 central themes: support, trauma, protection, school as a safe place, helping others, independence, spirituality, and success. The significant finding of this research were the protective factors of support and resiliency. Each participant identified a supportive person/people in their life during the time of their parent(s) incarceration and all participants defined themselves as being resilient. The results of this study are relevant to how this population can be serviced at different times throughout their lives and provides a greater understanding of the individual and collective needs of those who were impacted by parental incarceration. This study encourages further research to determine how counselors, school leaders and politicians are able to assist families impacted by incarceration as well as promote the need for the discussion about the physical and emotional safety and wellbeing of children.