Date of Conferral

5-30-2024

Date of Award

May 2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Stephen Hampe

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative interpretative phenomenological study was to explore the experiences of maternal absence of female offenders convicted of a violent crime from the perspective of violent female offenders. Two research questions were addressed: (a) how female offenders convicted of a violence offense describe their lived experiences with their mother’s absence due to incarceration and (b) how maternal absence due to incarceration feature on female offenders’ reflections of what led to their violent offending. Interpretive phenomenological analysis was used to analyze data collected from 13 participants using semi structured interviews. The results revealed four themes: (a) the mother-child bond was positive and strong prior to maternal absence, (b) maternal absence caused emotional distress that other caregivers could only partially alleviate, (c) maternal incarceration was associated with negative developmental outcomes, and (d) negative developmental outcomes stemming from maternal absence led to criminal behavior and incarceration. Insights from the findings of this study both confirm and extend existing knowledge in the discipline of criminology. Positive social changes with the implementation of alternative sentencing options, such as community-based rehabilitation, to support incarcerated mothers and their families to maintain contact with their children and reduce the intergenerational impact of incarceration. The understanding of the role of maternal absence concerning the criminal behavior of female violent offenders. This led to implementing of interventions or policies to address the problem of violent offenses committed by women. As a result, these women can then lead an offense-free lifestyle, having a positive impact on their families.

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