Raising Babies In Prison Analysis

The initial thought of innocent babies being raised by criminals is appalling. However, the more I read Abby Quillen article, “Raising Babies in Prison”, published by the Yes! Magazine in the winter of 2011, the more I realized how benefits there could be. I stand mostly negative side of this issue, but it’s hard to ignore the statistics. The Residential Parenting Program changes lives, “the recidivism rate is 12 percent compared to 40 percent for the general Washington Corrections Center for Women” (Quillen 1). The fact that most mothers stay out of prison creates much more stability for the child. It gives both the mother and child a chance to have a fresh start. Being a mother gives these inmates hope and purpose. Mother and child bonding is essential to the well-being for the development of the child. Children who lacked mother bonding often deal “grapple with depression, hyperactivity, aggression… and are more likely
The child is forced to grow up in a prison! In a way, that baby is paying the price for his/her moms mistake! The baby does get to bond with his/her mom, but not the rest of the family members. The rest of the family could be more responsible. It can be argued that bonding is more important than bonding with other family members, that are not inmates. The child is isolated in the prison and can’t go outside when he/she wants. In Erika Freeman’s case, “ she can’t take her daughter to the park or library. She can’t take Riley to her grandparents’ house, and at certain times of the day, she can’t even take Riley down the hall to the bathroom” (Quillen 1). This is not the type of an environment that children should be raised in! I think 30 months is too long of a time for the child to be in prison. I believe that the baby should be allowed to go live with family members after he/she is done breastfeeding or the 30 months is up, whichever comes