Date of Award

2022

Document Type

Doctoral Research Paper

Degree Name

Psy.D.

Organizational Unit

Graduate School of Professional Psychology

First Advisor

Jennifer Tippett

Second Advisor

Laurie Ivey

Third Advisor

Bradley McMillan

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Keywords

Adverse childhood experiences, Substance use disorders, Attachment theory, Developmental trauma, Relational trauma

Abstract

Research shows a correlation exists between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and poor mental health such as psychiatric and substance use disorders (Adshead, 2018). Research further suggests a correlation between ACEs and insecure attachment in adults (Adshead, 2018). The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020) estimates 85% of the correctional population either has a substance use disorder or was incarcerated for a drug-related offense. This paper theorizes that those involved in the correctional system with a history of high ACE scores and substance use also experience insecure attachment, which is not currently addressed in correctional SUD programs. Attachment theory moderates the relationship between ACEs and substance use disorders (SUDs). Treatment interventions should be targeted at the insecure attachment present in correctional populations. This paper postulates that successful treatment of attachment concerns will decrease substance use, and future research considerations are discussed.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.

Extent

46 pgs

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