Abstract

Correctional systems spend considerable resources providing visitations for incarcerated individuals. Researchers have explored whether visitations decrease recidivism, increase prosocial behaviors from those incarcerated, and increase positive outcomes for children of incarcerated parents. Study results are mixed. This qualitative case study examines the perceptions of 89 incarcerated mothers who participated in a unique enhanced visitation event within Oregon’s Department of Corrections. The incarcerated mothers revealed that this particular type of visitation provides mother–child bonding opportunities, are incentives to engage in prosocial behaviors, and challenge negative self-images they have created about themselves and others. Policy, practice, and future research implications related to enhanced visitations within the prison environment are discussed.