Understanding the Stressors of Mothers Who Have Transitioned out of Prison

This study was conducted to explore the experiences and perceptions of eight mental health clinicians on the stressors that mothers transitioning from prison face as they try to integrate into the community. The participant sample for this study consisted of eight mental health clinicians who have experience working with mothers who are transitioning out of incarceration. Participants were between 30 and 50 years of age. All eight participants were actively employed as mental health professionals and had experience working with women/mothers that were incarcerated and were reintegrating back into the community. All eight participants had1-11 years’ experience working with women/mothers that have been incarcerated and are transitioning back into their community. This study employed a qualitative research method to gather data through in-depth interviews with mental health clinicians to understand their perceptions of stressors and resources for mothers who have transitioned from prison. The findings indicated that resources should include mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, coping strategies, employment, reunification with children, and parenting. The recommendations from this study may increase positive social change by informing policy and program development that support mothers during the transition and improve their overall well-being. The study adds to the existing literature on the topic and provides valuable insights into the challenges mothers face transitioning from prison into their communities.