The power of parent-child bonds in the correctional system

The Bureau of Justice Statistics estimates that 684,500 state and federal prisoners were parents of at least one minor child in 2016—nearly half of state prisoners (47%) and more than half of federal prisoners (58%)— totaling an estimated 1,473,700 children. The development of parent-child relationships over time plays a crucial role in how parents navigate the challenges of the correctional system and their personal growth upon release. Strong, supportive connections can facilitate healthier coping mechanisms and emotional resilience for both parents and children. Similarly, children facing the trauma of having an incarcerated parent need effective strategies to cope with their experiences. By fostering emotional understanding and resilience, these children can better realize their potential and thrive despite the difficulties they encounter.

On Friday, September 13, 2024, Brookings Metro hosted an exclusive screening of the award-winning film “Daughters” (Sundance Film Festival Awardee), a documentary following the story of four young girls as they prepare for a special Daddy-Daughter Dance with their incarcerated fathers. Before the screening, Girls for A Change CEO and co-director of “Daughters” Angela Patton, along with some of the fathers and community advocates who participated in the film, discussed their experiences, making the documentary, and the power of connection and communities.