A Study of Substance Use in Women in the West Texas U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services System

Previous studies have shown an association between substance use in the corrections population and, though the overall probation population has been declining, the percentage of women on probation has significantly increased. This study collected data on the factors associated with substance use and criminality among West Texas women who were sentenced to the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services System (USPPSS). Intake records for USPPSS adult women spanning 3 years were reviewed. Among all age distributions and demographics, alcohol use was found to be prevalent. A significant positive correlation was found between immediate and extended family use of alcohol or drugs. Approximately one third of women reported a lifetime history of psychiatric treatment and three fourths reported a lifetime history of emotional/verbal, physical, and/or sexual abuse. The significant association with alcohol and substance use among these women should be addressed when determining probation planning and social services. Furthermore, the high incidence of emotional/verbal, physical and/or sexual abuse, and suicidality in this population would recommend an approach that includes provision of adequate mental health services.