Pivoting to the Positive: A Novel Strategy for Evaluating Programs Serving Children of Incarcerated Parents

Abstract Understanding children of incarcerated parents frequently reflects a myopic focus on risk, disadvantage, and likelihood of intergenerational justice system involvement. Thankfully, we now see pivots towards using positive research frameworks to research youth and evaluate programming. One such initiative was undertaken by Prison Fellowship® to develop and assess their new program, the First Chance Network™. The program aims to promote family resilience and youth flourishing for families impacted by incarceration. A participatory, sequential mixed-methods evaluation design strategy was developed, taking inspiration from the HOPE framework, resilience theory, and PCE research. Initial findings support the importance of PCEs, mentors, and supportive peers in promoting child well-being, even amongst adversity. Positive research strategies serve not only as a new way to evaluate programs and promote youth flourishing but also to redirect the defeatist narrative we often speak over children and families impacted by incarceration.