Status: Little or no detectable change
Most Recent Data:
7.5
percent
(2018-19)
Target:
5.2
percent
Desired Direction:
Decrease desired
Baseline:
7.7
percent of children aged 17 years and under had ever experienced a parent or guardian serving time in jail in 2016-17
Reduce the proportion of children who have ever experienced a parent or guardian who has served time in jail
Summary
Children with a parent or guardian who has served time in jail are more likely to live in poverty, experience homelessness, and witness domestic violence. They’re also more likely to have speech, attention, and behavior problems — and to eventually serve time in jail themselves. Children from certain racial/ethnic groups and from families with lower income levels are more likely to have a parent who has served time in jail. Policies that support parents and teach parenting skills may have a positive impact on children with a parent who has served time in jail. Reentry programs that include job placement and housing may also benefit the children of people who have been in jail.
Topics: Social and Community Context, Child and Adolescent Development, Children, Parents or Caregivers
Workgroup: Social Determinants of Health Workgroup