NCJ Number
244417
Journal
Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Dated: July-September 2013 Pages: 269-294
Date Published
September 2013
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This study examined maltreatment in childhood and its association with adult substance abuse.
Abstract
Child maltreatment is a risk factor for substance abuse in adulthood. This study examines whether memory of maltreatment is a necessary link in the path leading from prospectively measured childhood maltreatment to adult substance use problems. Official Child Protective Services reports and adult retrospective recall of childhood maltreatment were used to predict illegal drug use and alcohol problems in adulthood controlling for covariates. Memory was a necessary link in the path between prospective reports of maltreatment and alcohol problems, and it was an important link in the path between prospective reports and illegal drug use. Implications for prevention and treatment are discussed. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.