PARENTAL SUBSTANCE MISUSE AND CHIL »

Brynna Kroll is a Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Exeter specialising in practice with children and families. A former probation officer, guardian ad litem and family court welfare officer, she has published in the areas of social work with children, children and divorce and the impact of loss. Andy Taylor, a former probation officer specialising in drug and alcohol problems, is a Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Exeter and is currently undertaking research at the University of Bath into the experiences of children of substance misusing parents. He has published in the areas of substance misuse and probation practice.

Focusing on the needs of children of substance misusing parents and the dilemmas faced by professionals working with them, this comprehensive book brings together for the first time theoretical and practice issues for all those involved with the crossover between responses to drug and alcohol problems and child welfare.

Describing the effects of substance misuse on 'good enough' parenting and attachment (and taking into account theories about substance use), the authors analyse the issues facing children, including the impact on psychological and emotional development.

Emphasising the importance of developing holistic approaches, involving both child care and drug and alcohol agencies as well as families, this book presents a practical model for risk assessment and intervention that balances the 'competing' needs of parents and their children. It is an essential resource for all those working or training to work in the fields of child welfare, substance misuse, health, education and criminal justice.