NCJ Number
219932
Journal
Substance Use & Misuse Volume: 42 Issue: 7 Dated: 2007 Pages: 1055-1067
Date Published
2007
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study looks at employment/unemployment among chronic drug users (CDUs).
Abstract
The study findings showed that unemployment is a serious problem among out-of-treatment CDUs. Out-of-treatment substance users are at a disadvantage in obtaining and maintaining employment due to the lack of assistance programs. At the baseline and at 6-month followup, the majority of the CDUs were unemployed in the prior month. Findings showed that over 68 percent of the sample were unemployed at baseline; over 67 percent were unemployed at 6-month followup; only 15 percent were employed at both time periods; and one half were unemployed at both time periods. Some of the problems sited were the lack of job readiness and job skills. Training in the application process and what is expected of them from the employer is also needed. Women were less likely to experience consistent employment then men, because of childcare responsibilities. The study found that future research in the area of substance use and employed is still needed. The study consisted of 600 African-American, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic White men and women, 18 years or older who were residents of Miami-Dade County, FL. A base-line questionnaire included demographic information, employment history, drug use history, and questions on sexual risk behaviors. Tables, references