Responding to Problem Substance Use: deconstructing structures and politicising the personal

Abstract

The growth and development of international women-centred research into correctional practice and policy has highlighted the recurring and pervasive issue of problem drug and alcohol use1 among women in conflict with the law. This chapter examines the scope and availability of evidence to support the use of programmes and interventions for girls and women in custodial and community settings, with specific attention to drug and alcohol problems. We explore what interventions appear to work according to the evidence available, but also look beyond this to critically evaluate the limitations of evidence-based interventions, and in doing so, set out to identify gaps in the research. In particular, we explore the challenges of measuring effectiveness in relation to gender-based criminal justice interventions in the context of problem substance use and recovery. We conclude by providing tentative ideas for future directions in research and policy.