Drug Use and Incarceration among Rural Appalachian Women: Findings From a Jail Sample.

BACKGROUND/

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper is to examine drug use and incarceration history among rural Appalachian women.

METHODS

This study involved random selection, screening, and interviews with rural women from local jails in Appalachia.

RESULTS

Of the women randomly selected and screened, 97% met criteria for substance use intervention. Significant factors associated with incarceration history included age, education, custody status, and mental health. A significant interaction was observed between male sex partners and drug use on incarceration history.

CONCLUSIONS

Study findings suggest that the drug/crime relationship among rural Appalachian women is associated with their high-risk home environment, partner relationships, and mental health. Specifically, in addition to drug use, factors such as family and child relationships, anxiety, victimization, and relationships with partners should also be considered in the trajectory of criminal careers among rural Appalachian women.