The Interface of Child Welfare and Parental Criminal Justice Involvement: Policy and Practice Implications for the Children of Incarcerated Parents

Benjamin de Haan, Joseph A. Mienko, J. Mark Eddy - Handbook on Children with Incarcerated Parents

Abstract

There is a significant interplay between the adult corrections system and the child welfare system in the USA through the families involved in both systems. Perspectives on the interaction between these two systems and the implications of this interaction for children with incarcerated parents are provided by three authors who have collective experience in administration, practice, and research in both systems. Issues related to policies and practices in both child welfare and corrections are discussed, including monitoring parental incarceration, interagency communication and collaboration, parent–child visits, and the termination of parental rights. Recommendations are made for future research, policy, and practice. New approaches within child welfare and corrections are needed that are in the best interests of the child, his or her family, and society at large.