Most people inside would tell you the same thing, being out with family and friends is what they miss the most.
Incarceration takes away:
Even in lower security settings, it is still a controlled environment where:
That is why letters, calls, and visits matter so much. They help maintain a connection to the outside world and remind someone of what they are working toward.
Bottom line
Yes, being out with family and friends is far better. Staying connected while they are inside can make a real difference in how they get through the time.