Family Influences on Female Offenders’ Substance Use: The Role of Adverse Childhood Events among Incarcerated Women

Childhood maltreatment, witnessing violence, and growing up with absent, addicted, or mentally ill caregivers influence adult
physical and psychological well-being and may play an important role in female offending. This study utilizes data from a
study of 60 incarcerated women to examine a possible intervening variable in the victimization-crime relationship. We conduct
qualitative analyses to examine family influences on substance use among female offenders. Findings indicate that substance
use may arise from a need to cope with child victimization and adversity, and that factors such as poor parental supervision
may contribute to girls’ substance use. After onset of drug use, many women may turn to further criminal activity to support
their habits. Implications for research and intervention are addressed.