Closing the Distance: The Impact of Video Visits in Washington State Prisons (2017)

"Of the many difficulties incarcerated people face, losing contact with loved ones may be among the most damaging. Research has shown that maintaining community ties can improve their health and well-being, decrease their sense of isolation, reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress, and improve their feelings of control and involvement in family life. Furthermore, research suggests that receiving any visit at all during incarceration reduces the risk of someone committing a new offense or violating conditions of parole when they are released. Thus, visits with loved ones form a lifeline to the outside world for incarcerated people and help pave the way back into society. As the number of visits a person receives increases, so do their chances of success in the community.