NCJ Number
209208
Journal
Substance Use & Misuse Volume: 40 Issue: 2 Dated: 2005 Pages: 211-229
Date Published
2005
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This study examined the relationship between childhood sexual abuse and drug use among a random sample of 100 men incarcerated in Harris County Jail (Texas) between September and October 2001.
Abstract
The majority of the inmates were charged with or convicted of delivery, manufacture, or possession of controlled substances (n=41); aggravated assault (n=22); and aggravated robbery (n=27). The survey included questions about childhood sexual experiences before and after puberty, drug-use history, and sexual risk-taking behaviors. Options were given to select the types of sexual contact experienced by the respondents. Overall, 59 percent of the sample reported some form of childhood sexual abuse, and all abusive incidents occurred before or at the age of 13. The findings showed significant relationships between drug use and childhood sexual abuse, with those who reported experiences of childhood sexual abuse indicating drug use as much as 30-percent higher than those respondents who did not report any incidents of childhood sexual abuse. These findings are consistent with the limited literature that has addressed this issue in an incarcerated male population. The authors advise that it is important for treatment professionals to address any relationships between substance use and sexual abuse. White (1996) has argued that it is not possible to treat chemical addiction effectively without focusing on the historical trauma as well as the potential threats to the safety of others posed by clients. Study limitations are discussed and subjects and methodology for future research are recommended. 2 tables and 53 references