Adolescent Substance Abuse Articles
Study: Domestic abuse high among drug users
By Staff Writer
Drug abuse can not only put users at risk, but those around them as well. The results of a recent study conducted by Spanish researchers revealed that six out of 10 male drug abusers directed physical and psychological violence against their partners.
For the study, researchers examined the survey results of 153 men between the age of 20 and 65. These individuals were receiving substance abuse help from drug rehab and alcohol, cocaine or heroin.
The researchers found that the rate of physical violence was between 6.5 and 21 percent. In addition, 51 percent of these drug abusers were aware of their actions. Though they understand the effects their behavior has on their partners, they were willing to use violence to keep their spouses from abandoning them.
Of this study population, some of the most prevalent forms of violence were personal control, sexual abuse, emotional neglect and blackmail out of guilt. Nearly 79 percent of the couples' relationships ended in separation. However, this time apart was typically a temporary arrangement.
Based on their findings, the researchers have found that the women involved with these men remained in their relationship due to pressure from their partners and the idea of unconditional love.
