101356: Reunification With Children in the Context of Maternal Recovery From Drug Abuse

About the Course:

Using a stress and coping framework, this qualitative study interviewed 6 mothers and 11 service providers from substance abuse and child welfare agencies regarding reunification experiences of mothers recovering from drug abuse. An analysis indicated multiple parenting stressors and a lack of resources and supports complicate women’s abilities to manage parenting pressures upon reunification. Maternal readiness for reunification, children who were returned prematurely, and the stress of dealing with child protective services and multiple service systems were other factors that contributed to poor outcomes. COURSE SYLLABUS I. Methods II Results III Discussion

Journal/Publisher:

(Families in Society) Alliance for Children and Families

Publication Date:

2008/Vol. 89, No. 2

Authors

Bonnie E. Carlson, MSW, CSW, PhD; Carolyn Smith, MSW, PhD, ACSW; Holly Matto, MSW, PhD, LCSW-C; Michael Eversman, MSW, LCSW-R

About the Authors:

Professor, Department of Social Work, College of Human Services, Arizona State University

Professor, School of Social Welfare, University at Albany, State University of New York

Assistant Professor, School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University

Research Assistant, School of Social Welfare, University at Albany, State University of New York

Recommended For:

This course is recommended for social workers, counselors, psychologists, and other human services and behavioral health professionals who seek knowledge about __. It is appropriate for participants with introductory to intermediate levels of knowledge about the topic.

Course Objectives:

1. 1. Determine the factors that affect outcomes of women recovering from drug abuse who are reunifying with their children.

2. 2. Provide mothers in these circumstances the opportunity to share their experiences and discuss their concerns.