A study of the differences in parenting styles between substance abusers and non-substance abusers

Abstract

The study examined the differences in parenting styles between substance abusing parents and non-substance abusing parents. This quantitative study determined if there was a significant difference in styles of parenting between both groups.;The study was comprised of (151) female participants, 76 (substance abusers) and 75 (non-substance abusers). All of the participants were the primary caregivers of their child or children. Each participant completed a questionnaire consisting of 4 scales, PARQ/Control (Parental Acceptance and Rejection Questionnaire which consisted of a built in control scale; DAST (Drug Abuse Screening Test); LDI (Life Distress Index), and the S-MAST (Short Version of the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test). Also each participant completed the personal information data sheet that included 4 questions pertaining to mental health issues. Each participant signed a consent form indicating a willingness to participate in the study.;The two groups were selected from different settings. The substance abuse group consisted of participants from outpatient substance abuse treatment programs and the comparison group consisted of participants from various venues such as daycare centers and a church. All of the participants were selected from the same geographic areas in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens and Westchester Counties.;The findings of the study indicated there was no significant difference in parenting styles between the substance abusing and non-substance abusing groups. There were two significant findings. First, substance abusing mothers scored higher than the non-substance abusing mothers on the Life Distress Index. Second, mothers who reported having depression were more likely to reject their children compared to mothers who reported suffering from anxiety.;The rationale and purpose of the study was to provide empirical data and more insight regarding the association between parenting styles and substance abuse. This study hoped to help identify potential at risk families and provide the appropriate interventions, to help minimize the risk of harm to a child, while reducing the substantial number of children being placed in the foster care system.