Incarceration, coping, and support

Data are presented from a study of the effects of incarceration on family life involving 63 inmates and 38 inmate wives. Inmates and wives who participated in the Family Reunion (conjugal visit) Program were contrasted with matched, nonparticipating inmates and wives. Interview data and standardized measures were used to assess inmate and wife coping and support to the wife. Coping was in the normal range for both groups of inmates and wives and, except for measures of wives' passive appraisal, did not differ according to Family Reunion Program participation. Wives used a variety of coping strategies, most commonly family support and religion, and had substantial contact with extended families, with most receiving practical help and emotional support from extended families and neighbors. Implications for clinical intervention are discussed.