Exploring the Emotional and Social Challenges of Spouses of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in Pangasinan Provincial Jail

Abstract

Despite the growing body of global literature on the collateral consequences of incarceration, limited research has examined the unique experiences of Filipino spouses of PDLs, particularly within a sociocultural context where family cohesion and public perception hold significant value. Thus, this study explored the emotional and social challenges experienced by spouses of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in Pangasinan Provincial Jail (PPJ), along with the coping mechanisms they employed. Guided by a qualitative interpretative phenomenological approach, the study documented the lived experiences of twenty legally married spouses—both male and female—of PDLs currently incarcerated at PPJ. Participants were at least 18 years old and voluntarily shared their narratives. Purposive sampling was employed, and data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic framework. Ethical approval and informed consent were ensured. The findings showed that having a spouse in prison causes serious emotional and social problems for their partner. Emotionally, participants reported experiences of shock, sadness, anxiety, fear, stigma, and loneliness, often accompanied by role strain and health concerns related to stress. Socially, they encountered discrimination, withdrew from community activities, struggled with communication barriers, and faced the demands of managing both household and financial responsibilities alone. Despite these challenges, participants demonstrated resilience through coping strategies such as faith and spirituality, family support, emotional expression, selective socialization, reliance on community networks, and eventual acceptance of their situation. The results, interpreted through Stress and Coping Theory, Stigmatization Theory, Contemporary Family Systems Theory, and Social Support Theory, underscore both the vulnerabilities and strengths of spouses of PDLs. The study shows the need for counselling, peer support, ways to reduce stigma, better communication with jails, and community support services.