Ever-apparent in our society today is the cycle of child abuse/neglect, drug and alcohol abuse and criminality. These lifestyles appear to continue down family lines and generations almost as if they were genetically transferrable. Though the link between childhood trauma, alcohol use and incarceration is strong, there are tools for intervention that we as a nation could employ to break this tragic cycle.
The first step is to educate the population on the issue at hand.
Recent Research Confirms The Connection
Recent studies conducted by University of South Florida Mental Health Law and Policy Experts examined nearly 400 cases of incarcerated male teens to make an in-depth inquisition into their lives, their family history and their childhood trauma.
The participating detainees ranged in age from 14 to 17 years old and were of various ethnicities, yet all were doing time for violence, murder, rape and theft. Questioning was specifically geared towards gaining and understanding of alcohol and drug history as well.
Young male criminals are infamous for being “uncooperative,” as well as rude, unremorseful, dishonest and a long list of other traits. But a look into their criminal histories developed a striking pattern.
Repeat offenders (teens in prison for the second or third time) showed increased alcohol use in prior months, as well as more intensely traumatic childhood events. (Including, but not limited to: rape, sexual assault, abuse, neglect, general violence, etc.) Most first-time incarcerated persons also had experience childhood trauma as well as drug and alcohol abuse, indicating that these kinds of experiences/behaviors manifest in worsening degrees according to life history.
Interrupting A Century-Old Pattern
Patterns of abuse, alcoholism and criminality have been seen in all parts of the world for literally hundreds of years. This is a pattern which is solidly ground into many sectors of United States, yet effective intervention is long overdue. How is it that we can interrupt the link between childhood trauma, alcohol use and incarceration?
It begins with education and responsible care of children; it continues with government programs that are supportive to the family unit and drug-free, positive environments for families and teens. The product: a drug and alcohol-free generation.
It is up to not only parents, but educators, other family and anyone who is in the child’s life to see that they are safe and well cared for.
The Drug Narconon Program Says The Earlier The Better
According to the drug Narconon program it’s never too young to educate children. In fact, many experts agree—the younger, the better. Providing useful life-skills, drug/alcohol facts and fun activities is crucial to keeping children involved, active and giving them a purpose.
Parents undoubtedly face more challenges today with regard to raising a family than ever before. Economically, times are tough, and this factor alone places the highest amount of stress on families. A worried, busy and stressed parent is much more likely to abuse their children either violently or by way of neglect.
The drug Narconon program states that it is important, no matter who you are, to remember the important role children play in providing a future for our families. Whether you are a police officer, a teacher or just an American citizen, do your part to support families in need.
Together, we can break the cycle of child abuse, alcohol and drug use, and continuous incarceration.
For more information on this growing problem contact the drug Narconon program today. Or to get help for yourself or someone else who is struggling with an addiction problem.
The drug Narconon program can break the cycle of addiction and offers a long term program with a 76% success rate for permanent sobriety from drugs and a guarantee.