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Surviving in the Darkness: Autobiographical insights of young adults who experienced parental incarceration in South Korea

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  • Lee, Ji Sun
  • Jun, Myung Hee
  • Cui, Lina

Abstract

This study is intended to explore the experiences and coping mechanisms of Korean children with incarcerated parents. It examines the autobiographical narratives of seven young adults who experienced parental incarceration during their childhoods and subsequently participated in a writing program facilitated by an NGO. Drawing on the narratives of these seven individuals, the study explores the multifaceted effects of parental incarceration on their lives. The autobiographical narrative inquiry reveals a range of emotional responses, coping behaviors, available resources, and resilience trajectories of children who experienced parental incarceration. It also emphasizes the societal challenges and stigmatization faced by children of incarcerated parents in Korea’s competitive and collective culture. Implications for policy change and social work practice will be discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Lee, Ji Sun & Jun, Myung Hee & Cui, Lina, 2025. "Surviving in the Darkness: Autobiographical insights of young adults who experienced parental incarceration in South Korea," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 173(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:173:y:2025:i:c:s0190740925002014
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2025.108318
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Stephanie Heinecke Thulstrup & Leena Eklund Karlsson, 2017. "Children of Imprisoned Parents and Their Coping Strategies: A Systematic Review," Societies, MDPI, vol. 7(2), pages 1-16, May.
    2. Nesmith, Ande & Ruhland, Ebony, 2008. "Children of incarcerated parents: Challenges and resiliency, in their own words," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 30(10), pages 1119-1130, October.
    3. Turney, Kristin, 2018. "Adverse childhood experiences among children of incarcerated parents," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 89(C), pages 218-225.
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