Family profile of heroin users in Mansoura, Egypt

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to compare family structures and functions in male patients dependent on heroin and normal controls. METHOD: Eighty patients and 20 controls were recruited from inpatient units at 2 teaching hospitals in Mansoura, Egypt. A predesigned questionnaire was administered to assess family functioning (self-reports), and the DSM IV clinical criteria were used to assess psychopathology. RESULTS: A wide range of family dysfunctions was reported by these patients: parental separation/divorce was higher in the group of dependents compared with the control group (18.8% vs. 10%), having a step mother (31.3% vs. 15%), the main caring person in the family was father (11.3% vs. 0%), mother (8.8% vs. 35%), or both parents (33.8% vs. 60%). Positive family history for substance abuse was significantly higher among heroin users (siblings 12.5% vs. 5%; father 6.3% vs. 5%; mother 3.8% vs. 0%; both parents 15% vs. 5%). Negative feelings toward parents were common in heroin users. In addition, perceptions of a negative attitude from parents were also higher. Moreover, aggressive response as a result of unacceptable behaviors was higher among heroin users: verbal aggression (12.5 vs. 0%), physical aggression (16.3% vs. 0%). Furthermore, religious affiliation was more likely to be less in heroin users' families as 61.3% compared with 85% of nonusers' families with marginally significant differences. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that family dysfunctions are common in this group of patients. This will need to be considered in the treatment of this group of patients.