The Experiences of Siblings of Incarcerated Individuals: Clinical Recommendations
Date of Award
8-24-2024
Document Type
Doctoral Research Paper
Degree Name
Psy.D.
Organizational Unit
Graduate School of Professional Psychology
First Advisor
Lavita Nadkarni
Second Advisor
Lynett Henderson Metzger
Third Advisor
Sonja Holt
Keywords
Incarceration, Siblings, Mental health, Family relationships
Abstract
Siblings of incarcerated individuals are a neglected and poorly understood population impacted by mass incarceration. The children and adolescents experiencing an incarcerated sibling may be at increased risk of mental health concerns, flying under the radar of professionals in contact with this population. The aim of this paper is to explore the experiences of individuals that navigated the incarceration of a sibling during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood to better understand what supports and interventions can be utilized to increase adjustment and mental wellness. Through qualitative data obtained through survey, this case study describes the perspective of sisters with an incarcerated brother and how having a legally involved sibling affected various aspects of their life. The results highlighted issues in family and non-family relationships, self-esteem and identity development, stigma, and lack of mental health resources. Suggestions and recommendations are provided for mental health and non-mental health professionals who may be working with this population.
Copyright Date
6-27-2024
Copyright Statement / License for Reuse
All Rights Reserved.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Rights Holder
Heather Burlas
Provenance
Received from author
File Format
application/pdf
Language
English (eng)
Extent
35 pgs
File Size
266 KB
Recommended Citation
Burlas, Heather, "The Experiences of Siblings of Incarcerated Individuals: Clinical Recommendations" (2024). Graduate School of Professional Psychology: Doctoral Papers and Masters Projects. 535.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/capstone_masters/535