Unveiling the Transformative Power of Conjugal Visits for Incarcerated Individuals and their Partners

This study explores the socio-emotional benefits and transformative power of conjugal visits for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) and their partners, focusing on their impact on emotional well-being, relationship dynamics, and policy implications within the context of incarceration in Cabanatuan City for the fiscal year 2024. Utilizing semi-structured interviews with twenty participants, including ten PDLs and their partners, the research employed thematic analysis to uncover recurring themes and patterns. Findings indicate that conjugal visits significantly alleviate stress, enhance emotional well-being, and strengthen familial bonds, providing a vital source of emotional support and stability for both PDLs and their partners. Participants highlighted the importance of these visits in maintaining personal connections, reducing emotional distress, and fostering resilience. The study recommends extending visitation hours, incorporating family counseling, developing child-friendly visitation policies, and enhancing communication channels with policymakers. Additionally, implementing structured emotional and spiritual support programs and regularly evaluating visitation policies can further optimize the benefits of conjugal visits. These insights underscore the need for policy improvements that recognize and reinforce the socio-emotional advantages of conjugal visits, ultimately contributing to a more humane and supportive incarceration system. This research contributes to the broader understanding of how family interactions during incarceration can mitigate the negative impacts of imprisonment and supports the call for reforms that prioritize the emotional and psychological well-being of incarcerated individuals and their families.