The development of attachment in children born and raised in prison settings

Authors

  • Naia Tolosa Simón EHU/UPV
  • Klara Smith-Etxeberria EHU/UPV

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26876/uztaro5121

Keywords:

Prison, Attachment, Development, Maternal modules, External modules

Abstract


The number of children who live in prison is not small. Beyond the multiple consequences that living locked up can leave on their general development, this article aims to analyze the influence of the prison context on the development of attachment of these children. Specifically, two predictors have been identified as risk factors for the attachment development of children in prison: the mother’s mental health and the separation between the mother and the child after the age of 3 years. Indeed, both the incarcerated mother´s reduced psychological resources and the child’s forced release from prison along with the consequent separation from the mother have been found to negatively influence the child’s attachment security. Thus, since the development of a secure attachment is essential for a healthy quality of life, it is necessary to promote appropriate prison policies for both the child’s secure attachment development and full well-being.

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Published

2025-09-08

How to Cite

Tolosa Simón, N., & Smith-Etxeberria, K. (2025). The development of attachment in children born and raised in prison settings. Uztaro. Giza Eta Gizarte-Zientzien Aldizkaria, (134), 81–101. https://doi.org/10.26876/uztaro5121

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