Family Dynamics and Opioid Misuse Among Black Americans: The Mediating Role of Emotional Support

Social support is a known protective factor against opioid misuse. However, there is limited research focused on Black Americans, a population disproportionately impacted by the opioid epidemic. The current study examined whether emotional support mediated the relationship between family conflict and opioid misuse in a sample of 600 Black adults reporting opioid misuse. Following a screener and informed consent, participants completed a survey at two urban on-site study locations. Measures relevant to this study included socio-demographics, family conflict, opioid misuse, and emotional support. Data analysis employed univariate, bivariate, and multivariate methods, including mediation analysis using the SPSS PROCESS macro. Family conflict was associated with decreased emotional support and increased opioid misuse. Additionally, increased emotional support was associated with decreased opioid misuse. Mediation analysis revealed a significant indirect effect of family conflict on opioid misuse through emotional support. The findings highlight the influence of family dynamics on opioid misuse and suggests emotional support as a possible mechanism explaining these associations. Clinical implications for addressing family dynamics and support in treatment in a culturally congruent manner are discussed.