Issues in the Treatment of Heroin-Addicted Women: A Comparison of Men and Women Entering Two Types of Drug Abuse Programs

A study of 333 heroin-abusing men and women found treatment issues for women which vary across race and differ from those considered important for men. White women tend to have experienced more disruptions and crises and to be linked with other drug abusers. Black women tend to be older and more isolated when they start using drugs; a focus on children, a woman's social network, and the development of career options may be particularly useful in their treatment.