Experiences of incarcerated mothers living with their children in a prison in Lima, Peru, 2020: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES: This study explores the experiences of incarcerated women living with their children in the Women Chorrillos Penitentiary, Lima, Peru, 2020. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Qualitative, exploratory study with a phenomenological design, through semi-structured interviews with inmates who lived with their minor in the prison. In total there were 13 interviews considering the theoretical saturation of categories. RESULTS: The experiences consisted of mostly negative intrapersonal experiences, related to different individual aspects and the conditions of confinement and prison treatment. Serious deficiencies perceived in the health care of inmates and children stand out, with emphasis on mistreatment and indifference on the part of the staff. Other factors involved in the construction of these experiences were identified. DISCUSSION: The results provide evidence of serious structural and organizational deficiencies that violate the fundamental rights of the population group studied. Government efforts to date are partial and insufficient. Sustainable policies and programs are urgently needed that prioritize quality health care and adequate prison treatment for these people with an emphasis on preventive promotional actions. There is a need for evidence-based interventions to reduce the harmful effects of childhood incarceration.