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Ministering to Individuals and Families with a Loved One Who Is Incarcerated

See also Help for Family Members of Incarcerated or Previously Incarcerated Individuals.

Having a parent in prison can impact a child’s mental health, social behavior, and educational prospects. The emotional trauma that may occur and the practical difficulties of disrupted family life can be compounded by the social stigma children face from having a parent in prison or jail. They may have experienced trauma related to their parent’s arrest or experiences leading up to it. Children of incarcerated parents may also have faced other difficult childhood experiences, such as witnessing violence in their communities or household or being exposed to drug or alcohol abuse.

Leaders may want to engage with a mental health professional as they provide support. Help children learn to pray to God and develop faith in Jesus Christ. Invite them to church and other regular social events to meet new friends and find joy.