“Grasping at straws,” experiences of Canadian parents using involuntary stabilization for a youth's substance use

Original research
by
O'Brien, Daniel & Rebecca Hudson-Breen

Release Date

2023

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

No

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

No

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

In the Canadian province of Alberta, the Protection of Children Using Drugs (PChAD) act allows parents to apply for involuntary stabilization of their children for up to 15 days. Given that research on involuntary stabilization programs is scarce, this qualitative study was designed to explore parents’ experiences with PChAD and their perceptions of the program's benefits and drawbacks.

Findings/Key points

Most parents sought involuntary stabilization because they were desperate to protect their child's health and safety, or to motivate them to reduce their substance use. Many also felt lost and overwhelmed because their child was unwilling to attend voluntary treatment, and they lacked professional guidance as to how to care for their child. Consequently, many parents used involuntary stabilization because they did not know what else to do. While some parents were grateful to have their child temporarily safe, many were disappointed because involuntary stabilization had little impact on their child's substance use. Parents also felt they did not receive sufficient support in coordinating their child's care following involuntary stabilization. Parents identified several risks of involuntary stabilization, such as angering the youth and undermining trust, and exposing them to negative peer influences.

Design/methods

Semi-structured interviews (n=18)

Keywords

Policy/Regulatory
Youth
Parents/caregivers