“I had Some Memories that Popped up Again From My Childhood:” Perspectives of Incarcerated Women on the Initiation and Continuation of Substance Use

Abstract

Women’s incarceration has been increasing over the past several decades, representing an incredibly high-need population. Jailed women have the highest rates of substance use and mental health issues compared to other criminal legal populations. Their trajectories into crime differ from men, often attributed to trauma, substance use, and traditional heterosexual partnerships. Using a thematic analysis and data from 42 interviews with jailed women, the current study examines women’s decision to engage in substance use and continuation or cessation of use. Findings contribute to the literature on gendered-pathways by describing their perspectives. Findings inform recommendations for future research and policy implications.