|
Children growing up in a home where Meth is produced and used
face an increased risk for abuse and neglect. Parents who are
low intensity abusers continue to function, but experience mood
swings. When high, they feel good, are active and get things
done but they can be impatient and irritable. When the drug's
effects wear off they sleep for long periods, leaving children
to fend for themselves.
Chronic abusers suffer impaired cognitive functioning. They are
often sexually promiscuous and multiple partners are common.
They can be volatile and impulsive; domestic violence is
common. Chronic Meth abusers tend to expose their children to
various other users and leave children home alone for extended
periods.
According to the Department of Justice, Office for Victims of
Crime, children living in Meth lab homes are more likely to be
physically and sexually abused by members of their own family
and other individuals at the site. Parents and caregivers who
are Meth dependent often lose their capacity to nurture their
children. In these situations, the failure of parents to protect
their children’s safety and to provide for essential food,
dental and medical care (including immunizations, proper
hygiene, and grooming), and appropriate sleeping conditions is
the norm. Some addicted parents fall into a deep sleep for days
and cannot be awakened, further increasing the likelihood that
their children will be exposed to toxic chemicals in their
environment and to abusive acts committed by the other
drug-using individuals who are present.
Dept. of Justice OVC
Learn More About:
Abuse-Neglect
Living Conditions
Social Problems |
