Over the past decade, the number of incarcerated women in the United States has increased dramatically. A large percentage of the growing incarcerated female population is made up of mothers of minor children. Incarcerated mothers face unique challenges because they are very likely to be the sole caregivers of their children. Separation from one's child or children is frequently a central emotional focus and source of stress for incarcerated mothers. Certain correctional policies exacerbate the stress and can have devastating effects on a mother-child relationship. This can present increased challenges for mothers upon returning home. The presence of strong family ties, including a mother's bond with her children, can make an individual less likely to re-offend. It is therefore important to assess mother-child relationships after release from jail or prison. This qualitative dissertation examines the viewpoint of post-incarcerated mothers. Through focused dyadic interviewing, mothers are given the opportunity to voice their opinions about relationship quality, effects of incarceration, and their abilities to remain out of jail and/or prison. Following a description of the emerging themes voiced by the participants, the dissertation concludes with a discussion about these findings. Comparisons with past research, the needs of post-incarcerated mothers and their children, programmatic recommendations, and study limitations are addressed.