title: 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 (RDT) 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, residing in an 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 an RDT program. Content analysis generated the development of three broad categories: (a) factors associated with first drug use, (b) factors involved in relapse, and (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 includes a focus on building self-esteem and life skills and providing access to resources such as housing, employment, and healthcare.
authors.affiliation: Author Affiliations: 1University of California, Los Angeles; 2Department of Social Welfare, University of California, Los Angeles; 3University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine; 4University of California, Irvine; and 5Amistad De Los Angeles.
authors.forename: Adeline M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Nyamathi
authors.forename: Neha
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Srivastava
authors.forename: Benissa E
authors.initials: BE
authors.lastname: Salem
authors.forename: Sarah
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Wall
authors.forename: Jordan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kwon
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ekstrand
authors.forename: Elizabeth
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Hall
authors.forename: Susan F
authors.initials: SF
authors.lastname: Turner
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Faucette
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002140:California; D062309:Community Integration; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006703:Ill-Housed Persons; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology*; D012008:Recurrence; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult