Date of Conferral

10-14-2024

Degree

Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)

School

Psychology

Advisor

Barbara Benoliel

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to better understand the holistic and cultural needs in jails to better support incarcerated parents in a rural Western region and to compare the needs to existing programs. The theoretical framework for this study was a program model called the Family Strengthening Project. Data were collected in individual telephone interviews with five professionals with experience working with incarcerated parents and their families in a rural jail and community, including human services practitioners and law enforcement officials. The findings of the study indicated that although the jail is currently offering parenting classes, staffing and the size of the facility make it challenging to tailor the classes to fully meet the needs of incarcerated parents. This included offering services that address trauma and help incarcerated parents maintain their culture during incarceration. Additional findings were a need for data, including longitudinal data and a survey of incarcerated parents to increase understanding of the needs from an incarcerated parents’ perspective. This study is significant for positive social change and the social determinants of health, as results may be used to inform practices and the development of a program that can better support the needs of incarcerated parents in the rural jail.

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