A Public Health Approach to Preventing Intergenerational Transmission of Substance Use Disorder: Applying a Social Determinants of Health Framework to Child Welfare and Across Systems

Child Welfare, 100(6) (paywall)

Reinforced by stigmatizing drug war policies, some responses to parental substance use have caused trauma to families, paradoxically increasing the risk of problematic substance use for children and parents. Solutions that interrupt intergenerational transmission of substance use disorder are necessary. The authors of this Child Welfare article review the evidence and practical considerations for an increased focus on addressing parental social determinants of health to counter parental substance use and support the welfare of both parents and children.

The article explores the complex mechanisms for the intergenerational transmission of substance use disorder (SUD) and provides evidence to support addressing parental social determinants of health (SDOH) to reduce intergenerational SUD and the need for child welfare involvement. Topics covered include the role that SDOH play in parent and child well-being, a proactive approach to child welfare and the policies and programs that impact parents with SUD.