“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 whose parents are in the United States. The number of prisons, both state and federal, is rapidly increasing due to the use of incarceration as a criminal sanction (Waldman and Hercik, 2002). Children of incarcerated parents constitute one of the largest at-risk populations in the United States (Mumola, 2000). Additionally, they are more vulnerable to economic stress and negative interpersonal problems such as lack of confidence, shame, instability in family relationships, school behavior. and academic performance or fear of getting close to anyone. “The enormous increase in the number of individuals behind bars, particularly women, has brought this issue to the forefront” (Krisberg and Temin, 2001). Incarceration impacts family functioning and unity. The challenges faced by the children and families of incarcerated people are significant. Not only do children face the trauma of loss, but they also face a myriad of other challenges, both economic and social. For imprisoned mothers, separation from their children is considered one of the greatest punishments incarcerated. As the number of children with incarcerated parents increases, so do their needs. The children of prisoners have enormous needs. These needs range from a safe and stable environment to an appropriate guardian to care for them in their parents' absence. As well as everything a parent is required to provide for. For example, basic necessities such as food, clothing, proper sleeping conditions, supervision, education, and medical care (CaseworkPractice Guide, 125). In addition, they themselves identify a large number of less tangible, but equally compelling, needs. When parents are incarcerated, “what happens” to children becomes a major concern. Before incarceration, “children are more likely to live with their mothers rather than their fathers” (Mumola, 2000, cited in Krisberg and Temin, 2001). Works Cited Krisberg, BA and Temin, CE (2001). The fate of children whose parents are in prison. National Council on Criminal Delinquency. Available: F: USERS Everyone WEBSITE ARTICLES Children of Incarcerated Parents Newsletter.wpdMumola, C.