Description

For sample children, JAILEV indicates whether the child has had a parent who was incarcerated. The question was re-worded between 2019 and 2021; therefore, the nuance of a 'yes' response changes slightly over time. Please see the comparability tab for more information.

This question is one of several included in the Stressful Life Events (SLE) section and are asked due to the association between stressful life events and health conditions that may persist into adulthood. For a full list of SLE variables, see the variable description for VIOLENEV.

Comparability

The question for JAILEV in 2019 asks "Did [sample child] ever live with a parent or guardian who served time in jail or prison after [sample child] was born?" In 2021 it was re-worded to read "Has [sample child] ever been separated from a parent or guardian because the parent or guardian went to jail, prison, or a detention center?" Thus, a yes response in 2019 reflects an emphasis on the sample child's living situation, whereas in 2021 it emphasizes the separation of the sample child and parent, without indicating if they lived together.

Universe

Availability

• 2019, 2021-2022

Weights

• 2019, 2021-2022 : SAMPWEIGHT