SPECIAL ISSUE: MAKING A BETTER WORLD FOR CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS

The punitive sentencing regime that has branded the United States as the Country incarcerating the largest number of its inhabitants has also imposed a terrible punishment on the children of incarcerated parents. These youth are at risk, not only for continuing an intergenerational cycle of crime, but also for entering the pipeline that extends from foster care, to school failure, homelessness, unemployability, poverty, and institutionalization. Even those who escape the more draconian collateral consequences of their parents' incarceration face stigma and shame that may affect their development. This special issue of the Family Court Review explores a myriad of issues that impact Children of Incarcerated Parents, and suggests a variety of approaches, practices and policies that will better the lives of children who should not suffer for the “sins” of their fathers and mothers. This Introduction highlights many issues that affect the children of incarcerated parents, summarizes the valuable contributions of the authors, and also identifies publications and research sources that delve more deeply into these topics.