The mothering experiences of women with substance use disorders

Lisa M. Cleveland, Rebecca J. Bonugli, Kelly S. McGlothen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

40 Scopus citations

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative study was to describe the mothering experiences of women with substance use disorders. We conducted semistructured, individual interviews with 15 mothers. Using thematic analysis, 5 themes were identified: (1) facing the reality of a pregnancy complicated by substance use, trauma, and loss, (2) finding a higher meaning, (3) dealing with the consequences, (4) managing the details of daily life, and (5) looking toward a future with my children. Moreover, the women described entering motherhood with uncertainty, fear, shame, and stress. We hope that these findings will lead to more compassionate nursing care for this population.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)119-129
Number of pages11
JournalAdvances in Nursing Science
Volume39
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Addiction
  • Mothering
  • Neonatal abstinence syndrome
  • Qualitative research
  • Substance use disorders
  • Thematic analysis

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Nursing

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The mothering experiences of women with substance use disorders'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this