Regret and Hope for Family Reunion among Mothers of Infants Incarcerated in Peru; [Arrepentimiento y esperanza de unión familiar en madres de infantes recluidas en Perú]

Abstract

Introduction: This study addresses the experience of incarcerated mothers of infants in Peru, focusing on their feelings of regret and their longing for family reunification. Objective: To explore the experiences of regret and hope for family reunion among incarcerated mothers of infants, to better understand the emotional and social impact of imprisonment and to highlight the importance of family support in the social reintegration process. Methods: The study adheres to a naturalistic paradigm, employing a qualitative approach with a hermeneutic phenomenological design. Data collection was conducted through workshops and semi-structured interviews with 29 incarcerated women, focusing on the mother-child relationship, adversity and communication for personal growth. The workshops facilitated reflection and authentic expression on themes of relational bonding, destiny in the face of adversity and communication for personal development. Throughout the process, informed consent, confidentiality, and participant privacy were prioritized. Results: Participants expressed profound regret, highlighting sadness, pain, and the desire not to reoffend. The hope for family reunification emerged as a strong motivator for their rehabilitation. Semantic networks revealed the importance of family reconnection, love, and personal overcoming in their future aspirations. Conclusions: The study showed how regret and hope for family reunion are crucial for their emotional well-being and reintegration process. It also highlighted the need for policies and support programs that specifically address the needs of incarcerated mothers and their families to facilitate rehabilitation and the reconstruction of family life after incarceration. © 2024, Editorial Ciencias Medicas. All rights reserved.