The most recent publication of the journal Addiction included a study which found a connection between a father spending time in jail and his children being at increased risk for
teen substance abuse.
This new study examined the association between having an incarcerated biological father and marijuana and other illegal drug use.
Over 51% of young men, and almost 40% of young women, whose biological fathers had a history of incarceration reported using marijuana, compared to 38% and 28%, respectively, of comparable men and women whose fathers were never incarcerated…
Biological father’s incarceration was also found to be associated with elevated use of other illegal drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. - Source: Science Blogs
Though the association is clear, the cause-and-effect relationship – if there is one – is not so clear. It’s possible parent incarceration is another symptom of the problem, but not the actual cause. It can, however, help caregivers, teachers and medical professionals be more alert when interacting with these kids.
Labels: parents, fathers, jail
Posted By: Jane St. Clair