The number of individuals in the nation’s prisons has increased dramatically over the last decade, from 850,000 inmates in 1992 to 1.4 million inmates in 2002. As a result, more and more families are now affected by the incarceration of a parent or spouse. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than half of incarcerated individuals in state prisons, the vast majority of whom are men, are the parents of minor children. Nearly one quarter of parents currently serving time in a state prison are married, while another 28 percent are divorced or separated from a spouse. For children and families with an incarcerated family member, the prolonged period of separation caused by a prison sentence may lead to a range of problems, including financial insecurity, the weakening of family bonds, and potential disruptions in healthy child development. According to a study by Western and McLanahan (2000), the high rate of incarceration of low-income men is one of the factors leading to a rise in single-parent households in poor communities. In addition to the effects of spousal separation, Western and McLanahan found that the stigma of incarceration and related labor market challenges can negatively affect an individual’s ability to serve as a responsible spouse and parent upon release from prison. This Resources for Welfare Decisions provides sources for further information on family strengthening programs for imprisoned individuals and ex-offenders. (Author abstract modified)