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Incarcerated drug-abusing mothers: their characteristics and vulnerability
Thomas E Hanlon1, Kevin E O'Grady, Terry Bennett-Sears
1Social Research Center, Friends Research Institute, Inc, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA. thanlon@friendssocialresearch.org
The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
|March 17, 2005
Summary
This study found that incarcerated mothers with drug addiction histories face significant challenges. Higher risk factors from early development are linked to poorer current adjustment, impacting parenting and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Addiction research
- Maternal health
- Developmental psychology
Background:
- Increasing rates of incarcerated mothers with drug addiction histories.
- Limited understanding of their unique vulnerabilities and characteristics.
- Need for targeted support and intervention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the characteristics and adjustment status of incarcerated drug-abusing mothers.
- To investigate the relationship between early developmental risk/protective factors and current adjustment.
- To inform prevention and clinical intervention efforts.
Main Methods:
- Study involved 167 incarcerated drug-abusing mothers in Baltimore City.
- Data collected via interviews on developmental and current experiences.
- Standardized instruments measured psychological adjustment and parenting satisfaction.
Main Results:
- Significant relationship identified between higher risk levels and less favorable current adjustment.
- Early developmental factors correlate with current psychological and parenting outcomes.
- Identified vulnerabilities in this population.
Conclusions:
- Findings highlight the impact of early life experiences on incarcerated mothers with substance use disorders.
- Implications for developing effective prevention and intervention programs for mothers and children.
- Need for integrated care addressing addiction, mental health, and parenting.