Measuring Substance Use Among System-Involved IPV Survivors: A Research Note

Abstract

This research note presents findings from a qualitative study exploring female, system-involved intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors’ perspectives on substance use disclosure in the context of research studies. The study sample includes 22 women who completed a court- and/or child protective services (CPS)–mandated IPV parenting program. Analyses revealed three key areas of participants’ perspectives on substance use assessment and disclosure: (a) administration setting/format and measurement clarity, (b) administrator characteristics, and (c) repercussions due to breach of confidentiality. Findings from the current study offer insights into barriers for survivors reporting their substance use and suggestions for researchers seeking to assess substance use among this population.