Children of substance abusers: A review of the literature

The proportion of women in substance abuse treatment programs or in need of substance abuse treatment has been increasing. Concern with female substance abusers has led to increased attention on identifying the problems and needs of children of substance abusers, particularly on neonates. This literature review summarizes the contents of the research on children of substance abusers (COSAs) available through 1985. Areas requiring further research and methodological problems in the research are identified. The literature has been organized into several areas: estimated of the numbers of COSAs, and research on pregnant addicts, neonates, infants, older children, and parenting issues.