Parental incarceration affects children’s emotional and behavioral outcomes: A longitudinal cohort study of children aged 9 to 13 years

Parental incarceration (PI) is negatively associated with emotional, educational, and psychological child outcomes. However, few studies explore potential mechanisms through which these outcomes are transmitted or the means by prosocial might develop. This study used data from two waves of a population cohort children aged 9 years followed up 13 living in Ireland. Children parents ( N = 8,568) completed measures PI, primary caregiver (PCG) depression, PCG-child relationship quality, behavioral adjustment. We then conducted secondary analysis on this national longitudinal Using sequential mediation models, we observed mediated indirect effect PI via PCG depression quality. at age was increased difficulties reduced behavior 13. Additionally, affected outcomes, emotional were less apparent where had weaker quality relationship. Supports that can mitigate impact for vulnerable caregivers discussed.