Female Ex-Offender Perspectives on Drug Initiation, Relapse, and Desire to Remain Drug Free

Abstract

Recently-released homeless women residing in temporary residential drug treatment programs are at a critical juncture in the process of recovery, transition and reentry. The purpose of this study was to explore factors influencing initial use of drugs and relapse triggers among a sample of incarcerated women exiting jails and prisons, and who are residing in a residential drug treatment (RDT) program and preparing for reentry into their communities. Among this population, relapse to drug use and recidivism are common. A qualitative study was conducted utilizing focus groups to understand the perspectives of formerly incarcerated, currently homeless women residing in a RDT program. Content analysis generated the development of three broad categories: a) factors associated with first drug use; b) factors involved in relapse; c) factors influencing desire to remain drug free. A discussion follows highlighting the importance of targeted interventions at RDT sites that integrate physical, psychological and social needs to optimize reentry into communities. This would include a focus on building self-esteem, life skills, and providing access to resources such as housing, employment, and healthcare.

Achieving Drug and Alcohol Abstinence Among Recently Incarcerated Homeless Women

“…Our previous, qualitative research (Nyamathi et al, 2016; Salem, Nyamathi, Idemundia, et al, 2013) and extensive community-based work have informed the development of the DBT-CM intervention and engaged collaboration between CHWs and nurses during reentry to help homeless female offenders more successfully transition into the community.…”

“…The CAB modified a semistructured interview guide (SSIG) which had been developed based on previous research, the literature and in consultation with community and criminal justice experts. Subsequent to the CAB, focus groups were conducted among Homeless female offenders to understand their perspectives (Nyamathi et al, 2016). Thereafter, two manualized programs were developed for the DBT-CM and a HP program group and one-on-one sessions.…”

The Effects of Age at Prison Release on Women’s Desistance Trajectories: a Mixed-Method Analysis

“…Until women's risks are properly defined and assessed, the development of programming that best suits their needs will continue to fall short [53,54,84,114,129]. Most importantly, we must infuse all programming with an intersectional orientation that accounts for the many victimization, offending, and reentry contexts that women of different races, classes, sexual orientations, and other social loci must navigate [37,41,89,96].…”

Correlates of Treatment Readiness Among Formerly Incarcerated Homeless Women

“…Building upon this study, another qualitative study was conducted to understand perspectives of formerly incarcerated, homeless women residing in an RDT program (Nyamathi, Srivastava, et al, 2016). These women shared several factors associated with first drug use which included curiosity, negative life circumstances, and personal choices (Nyamathi, Srivastava, et al, 2016).…”

“…Building upon this study, another qualitative study was conducted to understand perspectives of formerly incarcerated, homeless women residing in an RDT program (Nyamathi, Srivastava, et al, 2016). These women shared several factors associated with first drug use which included curiosity, negative life circumstances, and personal choices (Nyamathi, Srivastava, et al, 2016). Relatedly, some factors involved in reported relapse included desire to numb pain and challenging life experiences; other women discussed the lack of resources (Nyamathi, Srivastava, et al, 2016).…”