Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Appiah-Kubi, Jamal. Ph.D., M.Phil.

Abstract

Mass incarceration will have profound and disproportionate effects on Black and Latino families in the United States, extending beyond the incarcerated individual to impact family functioning, emotional well-being, and access to support systems. Rooted in structural racism and inequitable criminal justice policies, mass incarceration will contribute to long-standing social and economic disparities that will continue to shape the lived experiences of marginalized communities. This study will explore the psychological and social impacts of incarceration on Black and Latino families, with particular attention to emotional distress, family relationships, stigma, and resilience. Using a qualitative research design, the study will employ semi-structured interviews with twenty families and individuals who have experienced the incarceration of a parent, spouse/partner, or primary caregiver within the past five years. Participants will be recruited through purposive and snowball sampling methods via community-based organizations and support networks to ensure culturally relevant engagement and trust-building. Data will be collected through interviews and will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify shared patterns and unique experiences across family systems. By centering the voices of both caregivers and family members, this study will aim to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of how incarceration affects Black and Latino families and to inform culturally responsive social work practice, policy reform efforts, and the development of community-based support services designed to promote healing, stability, and long-term family resilience.

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