ChildLinks Issue 3: Parenting and Drug Misuse

Abstract

The discussion on the effects of drug abuse usually focuses on the individuals who are using drugs and much of the research and interventions are directed towards the impact on the user. However, anecdotal evidence and research tells us that drug misuse has a profound effect on the community and family surrounding the individual user. The group most affected are, of course, the children of drug using parents and it is surprising to see how little attention and research has been attracted to the needs of these children.