Incarceration and substance use among African American men: A qualitative study

Recidivism among jail inmates is common, particularly among those who are substance users. The present study was a qualitative examination of the daily lives of substance abusing African American men in jail and the role substance use plays in their history of incarceration and risky sexual behaviors. A total of 21 incarcerated men were recruited and followed post-release. Individual interviews, audio diaries and focus groups were used to capture information on participants' daily lives. The qualitative study focused on substance use, risky sexual behavior, social support and resources. Transcribed data were managed using Nvivo8 and a content analysis was performed. Themes that emerged from the data included the use of substances for self-medication and substance use feeding into the cycle of re-arrests. Substance use also led to a lack of job opportunities, which inevitably continued the cycle of incarceration. Most of the participants indicated they had multiple sexual partners and used condoms with those they “were involved with regularly” and felt were “safe/clean”. Participants looked to other substance users to support their habit. However, when the participants were around family or significant others who disapproved of their usage, they would discontinue for a while. Findings reiterate the need to focus on reducing and eliminating substance abusing behaviors of men in jail. Focusing on substance use can have a positive impact on reducing recidivism, finding employment, and establishing healthy relationships. These findings have implications for developing substance use and HIV prevention interventions for this high-risk population.