Readiness for Treatment: Does It Matter for Women with Substance Use Problems Who Are Parenting?

Abstract

This study examined changes in outcomes for women in an outpatient, integrated substance use and parenting program in Toronto, Canada, and tested whether their self-reported treatment readiness at intake predicted changes in substance use and parenting outcomes from intake to 12 months after intake. Although there were improvements in both substance use and parenting outcomes, self-reported treatment readiness only predicted changes in parenting attitudes. In response to the unexpected findings, treatment readiness with respect to substance use and parenting-related goals in the integrated programs was discussed. Rather than being a barrier to treatment, women’s role as caregivers might be an important factor to treatment participation and outcomes. The importance of having a comprehensive focus in treatment for women with substance use problems who are parenting was also highlighted for future research and treatment implications.

KEYWORDS:

• integrated programs
• parenting
• substance use
• treatment readiness
• women

Additional information

Funding

Funding support for this project was provided by the Government of Canada, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Institute of Gender and Health.