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Study reveals mothers' hidden financial toll from supporting incarcerated children

The financial and emotional toll borne by mothers whose adult children have experienced incarceration is often overlooked but can exacerbate financial burdens, especially for Black mothers, according to new research from Rice University sociologist Brielle Bryan.

The , "Maternal Wealth Implications of Child Incarceration: Examining the Upstream Consequences of Children's Incarceration for Women's Assets, Homeownership and Home Equity," appeared in a recent edition of Demography and explores the wealth disparities and racial inequities that intensify these burdens.

The research focuses on the critical role mothers play in supporting their formerly incarcerated children during their reentry into society. From covering security deposits and legal fees to providing child care and meals, the contributions of these women extend far beyond financial aid. However, their sacrifices often lead to significant long-term financial strain, particularly for mothers nearing retirement age.

The study analyzed wealth data from a nationally representative sample of American women, linking it to self-reported incarceration histories of their adult children. The findings reveal that while white mothers, on average, experience greater monetary losses due to their higher starting wealth, the proportional impact of these losses is far more severe for Black mothers. Already disadvantaged by the racial wealth gap, Black mothers lose a larger percentage of their overall wealth when supporting a formerly incarcerated child, exacerbating their financial instability.

"This research sheds light on the invisible work and sacrifices that mothers make for their children, even well into adulthood," Bryan said. "The costs—both financial and emotional—are profound and often go unnoticed in public and academic conversations about incarceration."

Bryan said the findings emphasize the urgent need for policy reforms that address the broader social and economic impacts of incarceration, including support systems for the families of the incarcerated.

"This isn't just an individual or family issue—it's a societal one," Bryan said. "Acknowledging the ripple effects of incarceration on families, particularly mothers, is essential to creating a more equitable criminal justice system and social safety net."