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“I missed open arms”: The need for connectedness among Black youth affected by parental drug use

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  • Offiong, Asari
  • Powell, Terrinieka W.
  • Lewis, Quiana
  • Smith, Bianca
  • Prioleau, Morgan

Abstract

Parental drug use has significant impacts on the physical, behavioral and social well-being of adolescents, particularly those from disenfranchised communities. We conducted a qualitative study to understand connectedness among Black youth affected by parental drug use in Baltimore, Maryland USA. In-depth interviews (N = 30) were conducted with three groups: parents with a history of drug use, youth (18-24yo) who had a biological parent with a history of drug use and youth providers with experience working with families affected by drug use. Data were analyzed inductively using a content analytic approach. Three salient themes emerged: (1) missing parental connections, (2) the desire for consistent, trusted adults and (3) the consequences of missed connections. All participants emphasized the limited emotional support and guidance provided to youth affected by parental drug use. However, extended family members (e.g., grandmothers, aunts, and older siblings) and community mentors stepped in to fulfill unmet needs, when possible. The consequences of missed connections were increased involvement in risky behaviors, fewer basic necessities and a missed childhood. Findings from the study deepen the understanding of how to support the well-being of youth impacted by parental drug use and highlight the value of including the voices of vulnerable families in research.

Suggested Citation

  • Offiong, Asari & Powell, Terrinieka W. & Lewis, Quiana & Smith, Bianca & Prioleau, Morgan, 2020. "“I missed open arms”: The need for connectedness among Black youth affected by parental drug use," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 114(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:114:y:2020:i:c:s0190740920300670
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2020.105072
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Noble-Carr, Debbie & Barker, Justin & McArthur, Morag & Woodman, Elise, 2014. "Improving practice: The importance of connections in establishing positive identity and meaning in the lives of vulnerable young people," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 47(P3), pages 389-396.
    2. Henry, Colleen & Liner-Jigamian, Nicole & Carnochan, Sarah & Taylor, Sarah & Austin, Michael J., 2018. "Parental substance use: How child welfare workers make the case for court intervention," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 93(C), pages 69-78.
    3. Foster, Cynthia Ewell & Horwitz, Adam & Thomas, Alvin & Opperman, Kiel & Gipson, Polly & Burnside, Amanda & Stone, Deborah M. & King, Cheryl A., 2017. "Connectedness to family, school, peers, and community in socially vulnerable adolescents," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 81(C), pages 321-331.
    4. Munson, Michelle R. & Smalling, Susan E. & Spencer, Renée & Scott Jr., Lionel D. & Tracy, Elizabeth M., 2010. "A steady presence in the midst of change: Non-kin natural mentors in the lives of older youth exiting foster care," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 32(4), pages 527-535, April.
    5. Welty, L.J. & Harrison, A.J. & Abram, K.M. & Olson, N.D. & Aaby, D.A. & McCoy, K.P. & Washburn, J.J. & Teplin, L.A., 2016. "Health disparities in drug- and alcohol-use disorders: A 12-year longitudinal study of youths after detention," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 106(5), pages 872-880.
    6. Ghertner, Robin & Waters, Annette & Radel, Laura & Crouse, Gilbert, 2018. "The role of substance use in child welfare caseloads," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 90(C), pages 83-93.
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