“Parental incarceration affects a large number of children” (La Vigne, Davies &Brazzell, 2008, pi). “Most of them are young, low-income, black or Hispanic” (LaVigne et al 2008). The number of children under the age of eighteen, with parents in the United States. in prisons, state and federal, is rapidly increasing due to the use of incarceration as a criminal sanction (Waldman & Hercik, 2002). Children whose parents are incarcerated constitute one of the largest at-risk populations in the United States (Mumola, 2000). Additionally, they are more vulnerable to economic stress and adverse interpersonal problems such as lack of confidence, shame, instability in family relationships, academic behavior and performance, or fear of getting close to someone. “The enormous increase in the number of individuals behind bars, especially women, has brought this issue to the forefront” (Krisberg and Temin, 2001). The impact of incarceration on family function and unity. The challenges posed to the children and families of incarcerated people are significant. Not only do children have to deal with the trauma of loss, but they also face a myriad of other challenges in both economic and social spheres. For incarcerated mothers, separation from their children is considered one of the greatest punishments imposed by incarceration. As the number of children whose parents are incarcerated increases, so do their needs. The children of prisoners have an enormous amount of needs. These needs range from having a safe and stable environment to having a person to care for them in the absence of their parents. As well as everything a parent is required to provide for them. For example, basic necessities such as food, clothing, adequate sleeping arrangements, supervision, education and medical care (Practical Guide to Work, 125). Furthermore, they themselves identify a large number of less tangible, but equally pressing needs. When parents are incarcerated, “what happens” to the children becomes a major concern. Prior to incarceration, “children are more likely to live with their mothers than with their fathers” (Mumola, 2000 cited in Krisberg and Temin, 2001). Works Cited Krisberg, BA & Temin, CE (2001). The plight of children whose parents are in prison. National Council on Criminal Delinquency. Available:F:USERSEveryoneWEBSITE ARTICLESChildren of incarcerated parents Newsletter.wpdMumola, C.