Behavioral Impacts and Juvenile Delinquency: The Consequences of Parental Incarceration

The behavioral impacts of parental incarceration on children are profound, ranging from increased aggression and antisocial behavior to higher risks of criminal involvement. These behavioral changes are deeply connected to the emotional distress caused by the absence of a parent, the stigma attached to having an incarcerated parent, and the disruption of family structure.

Aggression and Antisocial Behavior

Research has consistently shown that children of incarcerated parents are more likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors and antisocial conduct. According to Christopher Wildeman’s (2010) study Paternal Incarceration and Children’s Physically Aggressive Behaviors, children—especially boys—are at an increased risk of developing aggressive behaviors when their father is incarcerated. This study, based on the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, reveals that the loss of a father figure can cause emotional instability, prompting children to act out in destructive ways.

“Children, particularly boys, whose fathers are incarcerated are more likely to develop aggressive behaviors and engage in antisocial conduct” (Wildeman, 2010).

The Cyclical Nature of Criminal Behavior

In addition to aggression, children of incarcerated parents are more likely to engage in delinquent behavior themselves, creating a cycle of criminal behavior that spans generations. The Cambridge Study in Delinquent Development (CSDD) cited in Turney’s (2017) The Unequal Consequences of Mass Incarceration for Children suggests that parental incarceration increases the likelihood of juvenile delinquency, criminality, and even future incarceration. This cyclical pattern is troubling, but not all children of incarcerated parents will follow this trajectory. Factors like a strong support system, access to positive role models, and intervention programs can help break this cycle.

“Parental incarceration increases the likelihood of juvenile delinquency, criminality, and even future incarceration” (Turney, 2017).

Family Disruption and Behavioral Development

The disruption of family structure, especially the absence of a father figure, is a key factor contributing to behavioral issues in children of incarcerated parents. According to Del Toro et al. (2016) in their study Longitudinal Associations Between Paternal Incarceration and Family Well-Being, the absence of a father can lead to financial instability, housing insecurity, and emotional stress. These stressors can further increase a child’s likelihood of engaging in delinquent behavior. The loss of a primary caregiver often means a lack of supervision and guidance, which are crucial for a child’s development.

“The loss of a father figure often results in financial instability, housing insecurity, and emotional stress—all of which contribute to an increased risk of delinquent behavior” (Del Toro et al., 2016).

Social Challenges and Behavioral Issues

Children of incarcerated parents also face challenges in the school system. The emotional strain caused by parental incarceration can affect their academic performance, making it difficult for them to concentrate and leading to lower grades. This academic struggle is often linked to behavioral issues, as children may act out in school as a way to cope with their emotional distress. In turn, these behavioral issues can lead to problems with school attendance, discipline, and even dropping out.

“The emotional stress caused by parental incarceration can lead to difficulties in concentration, poor academic performance, and an increased likelihood of school dropout” (Wildeman, 2010).

Mitigating the Risks: The Importance of Protective Factors

While the risks of behavioral problems and juvenile delinquency are significant, it is important to recognize that protective factors can help mitigate these risks. Providing children with a strong support system, access to mental health services, and involvement in community-based programs can reduce the negative effects of parental incarceration. Research shows that children who have positive role models, social support, and access to therapeutic interventions are better able to cope with the challenges posed by parental incarceration and are less likely to engage in delinquent behavior.

The behavioral impacts of parental incarceration are significant, but they are not predetermined. Children of incarcerated parents are at a higher risk for developing aggressive behaviors, antisocial conduct, and engaging in delinquency. However, these risks can be mitigated through early intervention, community support, and strong familial connections. By providing children with the resources they need to thrive emotionally and behaviorally, we can break the cycle of criminal behavior and help these young individuals build brighter futures.

References:

• Del Toro, J., Hoskins, D. H., & Eitle, T. M. (2016). Longitudinal Associations Between Paternal Incarceration and Family Well-Being. Journal of Family Issues, 37(13), 1774–1802.

• Murray, J., Farrington, D. P. (2008). The Effects of Parental Imprisonment on Children. Crime and Justice, 37(1), 133–206.

• Murray, J., Farrington, D. P., & Sekol, I. (2012). Children's Antisocial Behavior, Mental Health, Drug Use, and Educational Performance After Parental Incarceration: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 138(2), 175–210.

• Nelson, C. M., Jolivette, K., Leone, P. E., & Mathur, S. R. (2010). Meeting the Needs of At-Risk and Adjudicated Youth with Behavioral Challenges: The Promise of Juvenile Justice. Behavioral Disorders, 36(1), 70–80.

• Turney, K. (2017). The Unequal Consequences of Mass Incarceration for Children. Demography, 54(1), 361–389.

• Wildeman, C. (2010). Paternal Incarceration and Children's Physically Aggressive Behaviors: Evidence from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Social Forces, 89(1), 285–309.