NCJ Number
215449
Journal
Aggression and Violent Behavior Volume: 11 Issue: 5 Dated: September-October 2006 Pages: 497-513
Date Published
September 2006
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study reviewed the research literature in order to examine associations among women's drug abuse, their being victims of childhood sexual and physical abuse, and their risk for being victims of violence as adults.
Abstract
Relevant research shows that women substance abusers are more likely than men substance abusers to have been victims of violence both as children and adults. Women victims of childhood sexual and physical abuse tend to exhibit low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety, and they may abuse drugs as a way of coping with their adverse psychological states. Apparently, the effects of drug use combined with vulnerable psychological states derived from childhood trauma put women at risk for being victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Experiences of violent victimization as adults reinforce women's negative feelings of low self-worth, depression, and helplessness, which then fuel more dependent coping behaviors through drug use. The staff of drug treatment programs should be aware that in intake interviews women presenting for treatment will not readily acknowledge their violent victimization as children or adults. This may require persistent questions about such abuse in the course of the treatment process. Feelings of powerlessness and helplessness should be addressed, and the enhancement of self-esteem should be emphasized in treatment. Treatment should also focus on building resilience in finding constructive and flexible ways to cope with negative feelings and experiences. Implementing these recommendations requires that drug treatment centers incorporate trauma recovery program components. Also, a number of researchers have recommended designing drug treatment programs exclusively for women. 120 references and appended methodological summary of the studies reviewed