Can adults get put on the naughty list?

The simple answer is "yes." If a child asks about adults being on the naughty list, this may be a signal that the child is being abused or is otherwise in danger. Keep in mind that it could also just be that they realize that their family is economically unstable or that mom or dad lost their job and they're trying to understand or maybe it's just idle curiosity. I would likely say something like, "before I answer that question - and I will answer it honestly for you - but before I do, could you please tell me why you're asking?" Sometimes kids are just curious and don't even know why they're asking a question. That's okay! But if they're asking because they're being abused or are in some other danger and they're trying to cry for help, then hopefully they will somehow disclose this when they're asked to tell me why they're asking that specific question. Like I said, though, sometimes kids are just curious!

If daddy or mommy is in jail, then yeah, mommy or daddy is on the naughty list. This is sadly not all that uncommon. ​And if your child asks about that then I will have to be honest and tell them, "yes, mommy or daddy is on the naughty list and that's why they are in jail. It's like a time out for grown ups when they get put on the naughty list. But, when their time is up, if they're good, then they can get off the naughty list.