They may experience sadness because someone they love is absent.
They may feel anger over the circumstances that led to the separation.
They may worry about how others will react if the situation becomes known.
At the same time, they may continue to feel affection, loyalty, and gratitude toward the incarcerated parent.
These emotions are not necessarily contradictory.
Family bonds can remain meaningful even when circumstances are painful or complicated.
The experience can become especially difficult during milestones.
Birthdays, weddings, graduation ceremonies, religious celebrations, and other important events are often built around the idea of family togetherness.
When a
parent cannot attend, the absence may become particularly noticeable.
A photograph that should include everyone may have someone missing.
A proud announcement may be delivered through a telephone conversation instead of face to face.
A celebration may need to be postponed or adapted.
Queency’s story illustrates one way a family tried to respond to that challenge.
