Faizan Ashraf (Research Scholar, Sociology)
Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
E-mail: [email protected]
Tel: +91 6005785292
Abstract: The imprisonment of a parent, particularly the father, has far-reaching consequences on the family unit, often disrupting the socio-economic and emotional stability required for a child’s development. This study examines the impact of a father’s imprisonment on children’s education, focusing on the effects of emotional trauma, financial constraints, and social stigma. The research paper is based on primary data collected from 30 children whose fathers are incarcerated in District Jail, Doda, Jammu and Kashmir. The key findings reveal that children of incarcerated fathers experience significant disruptions in their academic performance, marked by increased absenteeism, declining grades, and reduced participation in school activities. Emotional distress, often manifesting as anxiety and behavioural issues, further complicates their educational engagement. Financial difficulties due to the loss of a breadwinner force some children to drop out or limit their schooling. Social stigma and marginalization within the community also contribute to feelings of isolation, lowering their self-esteem and academic aspirations. The study concludes that a father’s imprisonment has a profound and multifaceted impact on children’s education, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities. Recommendations are made for targeted interventions, such as counseling, financial aid, and community support, to mitigate these adverse effects and support the academic continuity of children in such families.
Keywords: Paternal Imprisonment; Educational Disruption; Emotional Trauma; Financial Constraints; Financial Aid.