Mothers Behind Bars: (Re)construction of Motherhood in a Correctional Institute for Women in the Philippines

Abstract

The increase in incarcerated mothers in the Philippines has raised concerns regarding their welfare. However, the impact of incarceration on motherhood needs further study and has been an underexplored topic of feminism. This study explored how women navigate and negotiate motherhood in a Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) in the Philippines. Researchers employed a case study approach and conducted key informant interviews to explore how incarcerated mothers fulfill their maternal role and to examine the context of motherhood within incarceration. The collected data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed to identify themes. The findings reveal that motherhood in CIW deviates from traditional notions of motherhood. Despite the absence of direct caregiving, incarcerated mothers perform their maternal role through emotional and spiritual connections with their children. Motherhood in the context of incarcerated women in CIW can be seen as taking control of their agency; however, it is exacerbated by their socioeconomic backgrounds. The findings suggest the development of a comprehensive profiling system of incarcerated women and its integration in the family support services in the CIW plans to promote a more inclusive and responsive program.