More than three fourths of all inmates abuse alcohol or drugs, or both, and most of them have engaged in dangerous and troubling behaviors due to their substance abuse. Offenders with substance abuse problems frequently report prior arrests and incarcerations. A questionnaire survey was administered to male and female inmates over a 3-week period. There was an overall response rate of 76 percent. Respondents reported a pattern of polysubstance abuse during the month before their last arrest, and most respondents believed they were addicts or alcoholics, or both. Most of the respondents experienced problems with anxiety and depression, as well as health, employment, financial, and legal problems. Three fourths experienced problems in five or more areas, with men reporting significantly more drug-related problems than women. Their family and social relationships were considerably strained prior to their incarceration. Female respondents reported the greatest amount of support from significant others, followed by family members and then friends. Many men perceived moderately high levels of social support from a significant other. Visits were most highly correlated with perceived support from family members among women and with overall support among men. Women in this study received twice as many visits as men. Men received almost twice as many letters as did women. The number of letters and the length of time in program were the most influential predictors of support from friends, and time in program was most highly correlated with perceived social support from friends among both men and women. The number of arrests was negatively and most highly correlated with perceived support from family members for both men and women. Family-focused programs are currently underused in correctional settings. Family influences seem to predict whether an offender returns to drug use upon release. Contact with family members and friends is associated with perceptions of social support among incarcerated offenders in treatment. 3 tables, 77 references