Citation

Bartholomew NG, Rowan-Szal GA, Chatham LR, Nucatola DC, Simpson DD. J. Psychoactive Drugs 2002; 34(4): 347-354.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Haight-Ashbury Publications in association with the Haight-Ashbury Free Medical Clinic)

DOI

10.1080/02791072.2002.10399975

PMID

12562102

Abstract

Women who enter drug abuse treatment programs are likely to report histories of sexual abuse that may impact psychosocial functioning, retention, and outcomes. This study investigates differences at admission between women with and without sexual abuse histories who entered an outpatient methadone treatment program in Texas. In a sample of 137 women, 39% reported prior sexual abuse.

FINDINGS show that women with sexual abuse histories were more likely also to have experienced physical and emotional abuse, to report poorer family-of-origin relationships, and to report more drug-related problems. These clients also reported more depression, anxiety, thoughts of suicide, trouble concentrating, and trouble controlling violent behavior.

RESULTS are discussed in terms of the need for adequate assessment of abuse history at intake and the need for targeted outcome studies to better define the impact of past abuse on treatment participation and outcome.

Language: en

Keywords

Adult; Analysis of Variance; Chi-Square Distribution; Female; Humans; Methadone; Middle Aged; Opioid-Related Disorders; Sex Offenses; Socioeconomic Factors