Introduction: Approximately 60% of all incarcerated women in the United States are mothers with minor children and most of them are single mothers (Glaze & Maruschak, 2009). When mothers with minor children are incarcerated, the disconnection and loss of relationship as well as tangible support can have a "traumatic" impact on families (Sadof, 2015, p. 1). Alternatives to incarceration (ATI) are a viable option to hold women accountable for their crimes while maintaining their significant relationships and providing them with necessary rehabilitation (Goshin, 2015). Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine how a group of mothers reportedly navigated an alternative to incarceration intervention and how the ATI compared to any previous incarceration they experienced. Methods: An exploratory thematic analysis was conducted, and data were collected from eight focus groups involving mothers (N = 34) who were current participants or graduates of an alternative to incarceration program. The focus groups were audio taped, fully transcribed and reviewed with field notes prepared from the researcher and assistant. Data were coded and themes developed to answer the two research questions. Results: Analysis revealed ten salient themes: "reasons for criminal legal involvement", "an ideal ATI" ,"trust the process", "case-by-case", "support- they help with everything", "breaking the intergenerational cycle", "incarceration is not rehabilitation", "incarceration is easy, the program is hard", "I'm not the same person", "connection with children" Discussion & Implications: Findings suggest that mothers may successfully navigatean ATI that provides targeted rehabilitative services that include tangible and emotional support and prioritizes connection with children. Staff should understand the apprehension of mothers to engage in services, teach parenting and life skills and provide non-judgmental and hands-on services. Future research should evaluate current alternatives to incarceration interventions and outcomes for graduates of ATI should be studied. Studies involving women of color and ATI are needed, including the rate they are offered ATI and reasons they may decline the option. More qualitative studies must be conducted to continue hearing from mothers themselves regarding their experiences within the criminal legal system.
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