Treatment Needs and Initial Outcomes of a Residential Recovery Program for African-American Women and their Children

Abstract

The current research was designed to assess the treatment needs of 42 substance-abusing women and the efficacy of a women-based, culturally influenced, multifaceted residential treatment program for women and their children. Women presented with multidimensional treatment needs, including limited educational/employment histories, significant child-care needs, and histories of victimization and psychological distress. Women remained in residence for an average of 259 days. In all, 88% of the women remained substance-free at discharge; 49% had jobs or were enrolled in school/job training. This integrated, gender/culture-based approach provides a model for more effective substance-abuse treatment for women and their families.