Beyond the Prison Wall
Experience of Motherhood after Incarceration in Ethiopia, A Descriptive Phenomenological Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31265/nrjf7f42Keywords:
criminal justice system, Ethiopia, incarcerated women, motherhood, qualitative approachAbstract
In Ethiopia, the impact of imprisonment on motherhood remains significantly under-researched, despite motherhood being central to Ethiopian cultural identity. This study adopts a descriptive phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of nine formerly incarcerated Ethiopian mothers. The findings illuminate their struggles with societal stigma, poverty, and fractured family dynamics, alongside their resilience and commitment to rebuilding maternal bonds. Central to the study are the implications for social work practice. The results emphasize the urgent need for culturally sensitive, trauma-informed support programmes to assist mothers in overcoming stigma, and successfully reintegrating into their communities. Key recommendations include the development of gender-responsive, community-based initiatives to address the psychological, economic, and relational challenges these mothers encounter. Vocational training, parenting education, and advocacy against discriminatory practices are identified as critical tools for social workers to promote sustainable reintegration. The study also highlights the limited availability of non-custodial measures in Ethiopia, underscoring the detrimental effects of incarceration on maternal roles and child wellbeing. Drawing on global frameworks such as the Bangkok Rules, it advocates for non-custodial alternatives and restorative justice approaches, particularly for mothers with dependent children. This research contributes to global social work knowledge by situating the experiences of Ethiopian mothers within broader discussions on reintegration and motherhood. It underscores the importance of incorporating diverse cultural perspectives into social work practice, policy, and research, thereby advancing a more inclusive understanding of post-incarceration challenges.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Eden Begna Gobena, Sarah Hean, Vanessa Heaslip, Ingunn Studsrød
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