What is Narrative Literature Review

The aim of this narrative literature review chapter was twofold: (a) summarize the information available in scholarly journals about the demographics of incarcerated mothers, the characteristics of incarcerated mothers, the mother-child contact during incarceration, and alternative-to-incarceration programs; and (b) identify gaps in the literature and propose recommendations for future research. An electronic search was initiated using PsycINFO, EBSCO, and Google Scholar. A total of 39 articles were included in this chapter. Results reveal that incarcerated mothers have unique demographic characteristics and suffer from an array of psychiatric disorders. The symptomology of these psychiatric disorders is further exacerbated by sporadic mother-child contact. Several alternative-to-incarceration programs have been developed to promote mother-child contact and bring about positive mental health outcomes for them. Recommendations for future research have been proposed so as to provide a more in-depth understanding of this vulnerable population.