Deep Entanglements: The Complexities of Disengaging from Injecting Drug Use for Young Mothers

Abstract

Most studies of relapse and recovery among women drug users with children focus on improving their access to drug treatment. This article explores disengagement from a sociological perspective, as a process of personal and social identity transition. Drawing on an ethnographic study of young mothers and pregnant women attempting to disengage from injecting drug use, I suggest that this process is further compounded by a number of factors. Many women find it difficult to establish ties to the non-drug-using world, in part due to social isolation and in part due to ongoing stigmatization. Despite wanting to do what is best for their children, many are also ambivalent about giving up drug-using activities and relationships that remain integral to their identities. I argue that these are significant, complicating factors in the process of disengagement for women with children, which have implications for the kind of services and programs available to them.