Work

Insights from Family Members Who Support Criminalized People with Disabilities: The Extension of Carceral Power

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Ample evidence shows the manifold harms experienced by criminalized people with disabilities; yet less is known about the impact on family members who support these people. This article presents findings from qualitative in-depth interviews with six family members who supported a person with disabilities through the criminal legal system (CLS) in Australia. Participants described significant emotional and financial costs associated with this involvement, affecting both themselves and their relative. The findings highlight the need for human services practice grounded in an anti-carceral lens that centres the voices and knowledge of people affected by ableist and carceral oppression, including family members.

Source: Journal of Progressive Human Services

DOI: 10.1080/10428232.2026.2728797

Authors: Kathy Ellem, Simone Rowe, Lorelle Holland, Leanne Dowse, Jemma Venables

Institutions: The University of Queensland, UNSW Sydney, Australian Catholic University

Language: English

Topic: Criminal Justice and Corrections Analysis

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: U.S. Department of Justice, Queensland Government, Attorney-General's Department, Australian Government