Trauma, social support and substance abuse in relation to recidivism in Canadian women offenders

TRAUMA, SOCIAL SUPPORT, AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN RELATION TO RECIDIVISM OF CANADIAN WOMEN OFFENDERS The purpose of this study was to examine the hypothesis that Canadian federally sentenced women offenders who have experienced trauma, have decreased social support and have substance abuse problems will have increased recidivism rates. A national sample of 74 women was obtained representing the Atlantic Region, Quebec Region, Ontario Region, Prairie Region and Pacific Region. Measures included a trauma scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the Alcohol Dependence Scale (ADS), and the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST-20). Recidivism data was gathered from the computerized databank used by the Correctional Services of Canada known as the Offender Management System (OMS). Hierarchical multiple regressions were conducted and while the overall hypothesis was not met, drug use/abuse was found to significantly predict both conviction rates and readmission rates. In addition, trauma was found to significantly predict alcohol use/abuse.