Home > Child Abuse & Neglect > Impact > Long-Term Consequences of Abuse and Neglect > Substance Abuse

Substance Abuse

The child welfare system most commonly perceives substance abuse as causing abuse or neglect of children. However, research has shown that child abuse, particularly sexual abuse, is a common precursor of substance abuse. Substance abuse may, in part, represent an attempt to escape the unresolved emotional trauma of abuse or neglect.

Adverse Effect of Child Abuse Victimization Among Substance-Using Women in Treatment
Kang, Magura, Laudet, & Whitney
Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 14(6), 1999
View Abstract
Examines the adverse effect of childhood sexual or physical abuse among 171 substance-abusing women with infants or young children who were admitted to the Family Rehabilitation Program in New York City.

Associations Between Types of Maltreatment and Substance Use During Adolescence
Moran, Vuchinich, & Hall
Child Abuse and Neglect, 28(5), 2004
View Abstract
Investigates associations between types of maltreatment and substance use among adolescents.

Childhood Abuse History and Substance Use Among Men and Women Receiving Detoxification Services
Brems, Johnson, Neal, & Freemon
American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 30(4), 2004
Examines the link between childhood victimization and subsequent substance use and psychological adjustment among men and women receiving detoxification services at a large substance abuse treatment center.

Developmental Traumatology: A Contributory Mechanism for Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders
De Bellis
Psychoneuroendocrinology, 27(1), 2002
View Abstract
Discusses the link between the experience of maltreatment in childhood or adolescence and the development of mental health disorders which could lead to alcohol or substance use disorders in adulthood.

Sexual Trauma and Substance Abuse Developmental Trajectory and Implications for Treatment: The Project SAFE Experience (1986-1996)
White (1998)
View Abstract
Outlines the relationship between sexual abuse and substance abuse and reviews the implications for treatment.

	Related Information Gateway Topics Child abuse & neglect: Substance abuse Systemwide: Subtance abuse prevention and treatment services

Updated on September 18, 2008