Research evidence suggests that predictors of treatment retention may be different for women than men. Much of this literature, as well as anecdotal evidence from our studies, suggests that childcare issues are important determinants of treatment participation for women. We examined factors related to treatment retention by gender within the substance abuse program of a Northern California health maintenance program and found that, among women, retention was related to ethnicity, marital status, employment status, and psychiatric severity. Based on these findings and qualitative interviews with clinical staff, we examined the influence of new childcare programs in the treatment facilities on treatment retention. We also conducted qualitative interviews and focus groups with treatment clients, stratified by long and short program stays, to better understand other important determinants of retention. We found that, regardless of marital status, children play both positive and negative roles in women's treatment experience. We also found under-utilization of the childcare program. We discuss factors related to under-utilization of childcare services, early treatment dropout, and service implementation issues.
Learning Objectives: After this session, attendees will be able to
Keywords: Substance Abuse Treatment, Women
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.