As friends and family continue to gather this time of year, groups that study issues in prisons say families with a loved one who’s incarcerated should make attempts to connect with them. Prison researchers say despite obstacles in connecting, communication can help with better outcomes.
The Prison Policy Initiative says 50 years of research has found that people held in state prisons who receive in-person visits are less likely to be re-incarcerated after their release.
Initiative communications strategist Wanda Bertram says in recent years, prison and jail systems have added a variety of barriers making it tougher to connect in person, by phone or by mail. But, she says, that shouldn’t stop families from trying to maintain contact.
“We want higher rates of success when people leave prison and they’re re-entering society. You know, we want people who are mentally well.”
As for better outcomes, Bertram says it goes beyond reducing recidivism – the benefits can be seen in a variety of ways.
“People who are frequently in touch with family have better mental health outcomes. It actually impacts their physical health, it impacts their improvement in school and educational programs.”
Bertram says researchers have found a connection between visitation and a person’s tendency to obey rules inside a correctional facility. South Dakota resumed public visits at state facilities earlier this year, but as the nation sees another COVID surge, she worries about the potential for a patchwork of restrictions at local jails.
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