Drug Addiction and Families

Drawing on a uniquely large research study comprising interviews with drug users and their relatives including children, grandparents, brothers and sisters, Marina Barnard examines the effects of drug use not only on drug users themselves, but also the volatile mix of anger, sadness, anxiety, shame and loss which are commonly experienced by their extended family. She records the effects of drug use of family dynamics and relationships, including possible social and emotional costs. Its impact on the physical and mental health of family members is also discussed. The often overlooked role of grandparents in protecting the children of drug users is also considered in detail, as are the perspectives of practitioners such as teachers, social workers and health professionals. Current service provision, and the extent to which this atomises problem drug use, isolating the drug user and failing to address the needs of drug-affected families is highlighted, and the need for change in favour of family-oriented support and treatment is emphasised. This accessible and insightful book will be an essential addition to the literature on drugs and families, and the sociology of the family. It will be invaluable to drug workers, social workers and health professionals, and all practitioners working with families affected by drug use.