The research shows that stereotypical thinking about femininity and "normal" family life guide probation officers in their written presentation of women. Despite the fact that drug use is at least twice as prevalent among men as women, drug use is given greater prominence in the problem profiles of women remanded for reports than men. Probation is used in 50 percent of all female cases from non-serious first offenders to recidivists. Women who take drugs are regarded as passive victims of circumstances who need guidance, particularly help in their roles as mother and wife or partner. The women are not perceived to be heavily involved in drug use or criminal activity. The 12 women who completed a Day Center program valued their experience of probation although they were not serious offenders for whom a day center order would necessarily have been viewed as a direct alternative to custody. 3 tables and 7 references