NCJ Number
153683
Date Published
1994
Length
248 pages
Annotation
This report presents Guardian ad Litem staff and volunteers in North Carolina with information on parental substance abuse and its relationship to child abuse and neglect. The aim of the report is to outline an advocacy model designed to prevent removal of the child and to facilitate family reunification when removal is deemed necessary.
Abstract
The report outlines sources of information used in its preparation and reviews background information on issues involved in the relationship between parental substance abuse and child maltreatment. Using a snowball sampling approach, individuals and programs with experience in this area were identified and interviews were then conducted with child maltreatment and related professionals, i.e., Department of Social Services personnel, substance abuse service and community family service workers, public health professionals, and attorneys. Another chapter discusses the experiences of Guardian ad Litem volunteers and district administrators in terms of dealing with substance abuse cases, determining the best interests of the child, using community resources, and proposing solutions. Recommended guidelines for working with substance abusing families highlight the need for a family-centered approach, the importance of home visits, and obtaining additional resources. The report describes noteworthy programs from across the country and outlines an integrated approach to advocating for children of substance abusers. 3 appendixes