Abstract

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a type of substance use disorder characterized by repeated use of opioid drugs. These drugs are known to be rapidly addictive with severe withdrawal symptoms, making death due to overdose a rising concern. In this study, we took a closer look at a specific population of women, all of whom had children and were incarcerated for opioid use. Our goal was to better understand the factors that would impact success among this group seeking medication-assisted treatment for OUD. We developed a set of questions focused on a variety of factors including stigma surrounding the disorder, influence of the disorder of parenting, approaches and barriers to treatment, and potential motivation for seeking treatment. We then virtually interviewed women participating in the Orange County Corrections Medication for Opioid Use Disorder Program, specifically in the Methadone Clinic, to better understand their experiences with OUD and methadone treatment. The purpose of this study is to give better insight into existing treatment options in order to suggest revisions to current policies. By doing so, we hope to increase rates of recovery from OUD and to provide better future outcomes.

Thesis Completion

2022

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Donley, Amy

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Sociology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-1-2022

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