A Proposed Framework for Social Work's Contribution to Addressing The Problems of Prisoners' Families in Al-Mukalla

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the economic, social, and psychological problems faced by prisoners' families in the absence of the breadwinner, and the negative impacts on family life. Further, it  proposed a framework for activating the role of social work in addressing these problems. The study employed a social survey methodology to collect field data, revealing the negative impact of the father's imprisonment on the socioeconomic and psychological conditions of prisoners' families, and understanding the dimensions of the father's imprisonment on the wife and children. A questionnaire was used as an instrument for data collection. The study population consisted of a group of prisoners' families residing in Al-Mukalla, with a sample size of approximately 70 individuals. The results showed that economic problems ranked first, reflecting the burden of living expenses, the low economic status of prisoners' families, limited job opportunities, and families' reliance on aid, which impacts family stability. Moreover, the results indicated a relatively high level of psychological distress among families, manifested in feelings of anxiety, tension, and fear of the future, in addition to feelings of isolation and loss of self-confidence. As for social problems, the presence of divorce, family breakdown, declining academic performance, and social ostracism are among the consequences. The social effects include the condescending and disrespectful attitude of community members, as well as the increased burden of raising and properly nurturing children. The economic effects manifest in the difficulty of meeting the family's basic and secondary needs after the complete absence of the breadwinner, and the forced reliance on work to maintain the family's financial stability by earning an income to provide for themselves and their children.